Overview

• The Getty Museum and its Villa, designed with fire-resistant materials and strategic landscaping, successfully withstood the Los Angeles wildfires threatening the region.
• The wildfires, which have consumed over 40,000 acres, caused at least 25 deaths, displaced 150,000 people, and are projected to result in over $135 billion in damages.
• The museum's features include fire-resistant travertine exteriors, reinforced concrete, a rooftop of crushed stone, and a network of sprinklers for rapid fire response.
• Wealth disparities became a focal point as private firefighters were hired by affluent homeowners, while others faced irreparable losses and struggled with inadequate resources.
• Experts warn that climate change will increase the frequency of such disasters, highlighting the need for equitable disaster preparedness and stronger governance.