Alex Hall for 1470 & 100.3 WMBD — Climate-related ‘one-two punch’ seen driving Los Angeles wildfires

UCLA climate scientist Alex Hall discussed wildfire risks around Los Angeles for 1470 & 100.3 WMBD, emphasizing the role of seasonal winds and human activities in exacerbating fire conditions. Southern California has faced an increase in wildfires, with recent blazes fueled by dried vegetation after consecutive wet winters and record heat attributed to climate change. Hall explained the danger posed by Santa Ana winds, which blow westward toward populated areas, increasing the likelihood of larger fires.

“As long as the Santa Ana winds are blowing, we run the risk of big fires until we really get our first rains,” Hall stated. He further highlighted the need for caution in activities that can spark fires, as many are human-caused, such as the Airport Fire, which ignited from a digger.