The flames may have died down, but the aftermath of Los Angeles’ devastating wildfires continues to affect public health, the environment, and daily life. Experts at a recent UCLA Fielding School of Public Health event warned that the city is facing an epochal disaster that has transformed air, soil, and institutions.
Air Quality and Health Risks
Even miles away from the burn zones, smoke and toxic particles have impacted the air. PM2.5 fine particulate matter from wildfires can lodge deep in the lungs, causing heart and respiratory issues, said Yifang Zhu, a professor of environmental health sciences. Even when air looks clear, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may linger, making exposure dangerous.
Michael Jerrett, an expert in climate and public health, highlighted the severe health risks from wildfire pollution, including:
- Heart problems, such as atrial fibrillation and increased heart attack risk
- Inflammation in the lungs, which can spread to other organs
- Adverse birth outcomes, including preterm births due to prolonged smoke exposure
- Links to dementia, with studies showing long-term cognitive effects from wildfire exposure
- “This is a crisis, and society is underinvesting in wildfire prevention,” Jerrett warned.
Post-Fire Cleanup Hazards
Residents returning to burned areas must take extreme precautions. N95 masks, gloves, and full protective gear are essential when handling debris, as toxic remnants, including lithium batteries and propane tanks, pose ongoing fire hazards.
If smoke damage is visible indoors marked by dark residue on windows and walls a registered industrial hygienist should assess contamination. In severe cases, carpets, furniture, drywall, and insulation must be removed to ensure safety.
Mental Health Struggles and Recovery
The fires have left many Angelenos mourning the loss of familiar landscapes, a phenomenon experts call solastalgia grief linked to environmental destruction. Psychologist Dana Rose Garfin described the disaster as a collective trauma, warning of rising cases of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
To protect mental well-being, experts recommend:
- Minimizing exposure to distressing news
- Rebuilding routines to restore normalcy
- Connecting with loved ones for emotional support
- Taking preparedness actions to regain a sense of control
- The Need for Better Disaster Preparedness
Dr. David Eisenman urged Los Angeles to rethink its approach to disaster response, calling for:
- Clearer evacuation plans and flood prevention strategies in burn areas
- A centralized information source to streamline safety updates
- Community-led psychological recovery programs that reconnect people with the environment
“The system isn’t working,” Eisenman said. “It’s time to rethink how we handle disasters in Los Angeles.”