Responding to Wildfires and Other Weather-Related Crises
Climate change has led to a growing number of weather-related crises. Wildfires have been particularly problematic and pose serious health concerns because they can cause many health issues, such as burns, smoke-inhalation injuries, and even death. For instance, research by Paglino and colleagues indicated that 440 excess deaths could be attributed to the Los Angeles County fires in January 2025. Excess deaths include those directly related to wildfire, partially attributable deaths (such as those from lung or heart conditions exacerbated by smoke or stress), and indirect deaths (for example, those due to disruptions to health systems and mental health impacts).