Today, Explained The politics of fire
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Jan 14, 2025 
Greg Pierce, Director of the UCLA Water Resources Group, and David Siders, politics editor at Politico, delve into the devastating impact of recent wildfires in Los Angeles. They discuss the staggering $250 billion in damages and the political finger-pointing that ensued. Challenges faced by firefighters due to inadequate water resources highlight a pressing need for infrastructure improvements. The conversation also touches on the political ramifications of these disasters and the urgent necessity for sustainable urban planning in the face of climate change.
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Firefighters Run Out of Water
- During the Los Angeles fires, firefighters ran out of water while battling blazes.
- This sparked public outrage and political finger-pointing, questioning preparedness.
Urban Water Systems Not for Wildfires
- Urban water systems are not designed for large-scale wildfires like those in LA.
- They're intended for everyday fires, not rapidly spreading wildfires, explains Greg Pierce.
Ocean Water Impractical
- Using ocean water to fight fires is impractical due to its corrosive nature and logistical challenges.
- Saltwater harms equipment, ecosystems, and poses risks in high winds, says Greg Pierce.