WHEN the SMOKE CLEARS

THE LINGERING EFFECTS OF THE RECENT PACIFIC PALISADES AND ALTADENA EATON FIRES

- by Sarah Gottlieb

Early this year, starting on January 7, the world watched with shocked eyes as wildfires consumed the communities of Altadena and Pacific Palisades in the Los Angeles area in Southern California. Hurricane-force desert winds whipped through dry air over drought-dried vegetation. There was little firefighters could do to stop the flames from engulfing homes, schools, grocery stores, libraries, and playgrounds. By the time both fires were contained more than three weeks later on January 31, the devastation was astonishing. More than 27,000 acres had been reduced to ash, 15,000 structures were destroyed, and 30 lives were tragically lost.

In the aftermath of this epic natural disaster, the outpouring of support to the people affected offered them some comfort and hope. Toys, books, clothing, and monetary donations poured in from all over the world. Organizations and the federal, state, and local governments stepped in and promised to rebuild as quickly as possible. Yet, as families began to return to areas close to the burn zones, many doubts lingered. Parents questioned the thoroughness of the school cleanups. Residents also worried about ongoing air quality as front loaders scraped and scooped debris to haul away. Ever since, residents returning to the burn zones have all been asking the same question: Is it safe?

URBAN WILDFIRES CREATE URBAN ASH