L.A. Wildfires Cause Devastation and Toxic Threats
The wildfires in Los Angeles have resulted in a significant indirect death toll, which may reach into the thousands. As investigators continue their efforts in the Palisades area, they have gathered about 150 leads related to the ongoing crisis. A growing concern is the toxic pollution released during the fires, with experts warning about the hazardous materials, including asbestos and lead, that linger in the aftermath. A health order has been issued by the L.A. County Health Officer, prohibiting the removal of debris until official inspections are conducted, due to safety concerns. The risk of debris causing flooding in the aftermath is also noted as a critical issue. Evacuees are being urged to avoid returning to burned homes to salvage belongings, as the hazards from the fires continue to pose serious health risks.
Yale Climate Connections, ABC7 Los Angeles, ABC News, The Atlantic, USA TODAY, Harvard Gazette, CBS News, The Washington Post, Inkl, Creators Syndicate