Overview

• Wildfires in Los Angeles County have burned over 36,000 acres, destroyed more than 10,000 structures, and claimed at least 11 lives.
• Firefighters are using ocean water to combat the flames, despite concerns over its corrosive effects on equipment and environmental damage.
• Saltwater use is a last resort due to its potential to harm soil, vegetation, and nearby ecosystems, as well as being less effective than freshwater for cooling fires.
• Strong winds and limited aircraft capacity have further complicated firefighting efforts, with some planes grounded after a drone collision prompted a federal investigation.
• California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency, deploying over 7,500 personnel, while neighboring states have sent additional firefighting resources.