Short Wave How The Coronavirus Could Hurt Our Ability To Fight Wildfires
Apr 3, 2020
Kendra Pierre-Louis, a climate reporter for the New York Times, dives into the dual crisis of COVID-19 and wildfire preparedness. She discusses how the pandemic complicates the ability to respond to wildfires, particularly in hard-hit areas like California. The conversation touches on the halting of prescribed burns and the added challenges faced by firefighters due to health risks. Kendra highlights the logistical hurdles of setting up fire camps amid the pandemic and the need for innovative evacuation strategies to keep communities safe.
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Wildfire Season Concerns
- The upcoming wildfire season could be challenging, especially for California, due to a dry winter.
- The coronavirus pandemic complicates preparation efforts, impacting firefighter training and prescribed burns.
Firefighter Risks
- Firefighters face increased COVID-19 risks, especially with pre-existing lung conditions from smoke inhalation.
- COVID-19 adds another layer of risk to an already dangerous job.
Preparation Challenges
- Two main ways to prepare for wildfire season are brush clearing and firefighter training.
- Both are hampered by the pandemic, as training involves groups and brush clearing programs are on hold.