Eaton Fire Soil Testing Reveals Widespread Lead Contamination, Palisades Shows Isolated Hot Spots

Preliminary results from Los Angeles County highlight serious health risks with up to 80% of samples near Eaton exceeding state lead standards, while Palisades shows localized arsenic contamination.

• Preliminary soil testing results from the Eaton fire area indicate that up to 80% of samples collected downwind exceed California's health standards for lead contamination.
• The Palisades fire zone showed no widespread contamination but revealed isolated 'hot spots' of heavy metals, including arsenic, with nearly 26% of parcels exceeding natural background levels.
• Roux Associates, a private firm hired by Los Angeles County, tested 780 properties across both fire zones from mid-February to mid-March, focusing on 14 toxic substances linked to wildfires.
• Experts suggest that elevated lead levels in the Eaton area stem from both historical sources like lead paint and additional toxic contributions from the fire's smoke and heat.
• Criticism continues over FEMA's decision to relax traditional soil testing protocols, with officials warning of potential risks from undetected contaminants on damaged properties.

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