Los Angeles Battles Devastating Wildfires Amid Climate-Induced Hydroclimate Whiplash

Science & Technology Science

Posted by admin on 2025-01-10 10:38:05 |

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Los Angeles is ablaze as a series of wildfires wreak havocacross Southern California, fueled by the phenomenon of "hydroclimatewhiplash"—the rapid alternation between extreme wet and dry conditionsexacerbated by climate change.

After enduring severe drought, California experienced recordrainfall during the winter of 2022-23, leading to significant snowpack andflooding. However, the summer of 2024 brought record-breaking heat and anunusually dry start to the 2025 rainy season, leaving the landscape filled withhighly flammable vegetation. This volatile combination has sparked a wildfirecrisis.

The Palisades Fire, one of the most destructive, has alreadyscorched over 17,000 acres and destroyed nearly 10,000 structures, includinghomes and businesses. Nearby, the Eaton Fire has caused further destruction. Asof January 10, 2025, at least five lives have been lost, with officials warningthe toll may rise as rescue efforts continue.

Climate scientist Daniel Swain emphasized that hydroclimatewhiplash, intensified by global warming, has amplified fire risk by fosteringflammable brush growth during wet periods, followed by extreme drying.Similarly, John Abatzoglou from UC Merced warned that California's climate isbecoming increasingly unpredictable, urging swift climate action.

Amid fierce Santa Ana winds gusting up to 100 mph,firefighters are battling to contain the blazes. Thousands of residents havebeen evacuated, prompting California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a stateof emergency.

Experts highlight the urgent need for comprehensive climateaction and improved water management to address the growing threat of wildfiresin an increasingly unstable climate.

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