At least 10 people have been killed and homes and other buildings have been devoured by the fiercest wildfires in Los Angeles, the most populous state of the United States, forcing over 100,000 residents, including celebrities to flee.
Termed a ‘historic natural disaster’, the Palisades Fire between Santa Monica and Malibu on the city’s western flank and the Eaton Fire in the east near Pasadena already rank as the most destructive in Los Angeles history, consuming more than 34,000 acres (13,750 hectares) – or some 53 square miles – turning entire neighbourhoods to ash.
California generally experiences wildfires during June and July, and they can run until October, but the blaze has defied the calendar this year, erupting in January – the coldest of the winter months.
The harrowing videos of the devastation could be scarier if compared to Hollywood movies. Emergency responders are battling to rein in the destruction, fuelled by strong ‘Santa Ana’ winds that were of the strength of a hurricane, gusting over 112 kph in some areas. When the wind spreads the fire, even the best fire fighters can’t stop it.
California remained the 5th Largest Economy in 2021 and 2022, more productive than India. They have helicopters, trucks, and huge water supplies to fight fires, yet the damage is already estimated between $52 billion and $57 billion, the costliest natural disasters in US history.
Climate change has contributed to an increase in the frequency, season length and burned area of wildfires, according to a report by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Disasters fuelled by the climate crisis are already worse than scientists originally predicted. It is one of the major challenges globally and India which is among the world’s most disaster-prone countries with 27 of its 29 states and seven union territories exposed to recurrent natural hazards. It is time to note that the climate clock is ticking and relook if we can handle similar disasters.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has been able to successfully conduct numerous rescue and relief operations in the face of numerous disasters. But there is still much to be done, especially paying attention to the environment.
India pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2070, alongside its interim goals for 2030, represents a significant step forward in addressing the climate crisis. But these ambitious targets will require collaborative efforts involving governments, businesses, and communities. Climate literacy through educational initiatives is important given that today’s children will inherit the consequences of climate change and be ready to face it.
