Extreme wildfires drastically impact the state of California on a regular basis. The Airport Wildfire burned across several Los Angeles counties in Southern California starting September 9, 2024, and continuing through October 5, 2024. The airport wildfire was initially believed to have been caused by arson. However, it was determined and officially proved that the fire was actually started by a spark from the Orange County Public Works crew moving huge boulders with heavy machinery. This devastation obliterated the wildlife, landscape, and individuals in ways never imagined possible.
Wildfires contaminate the surrounding air with toxic pollutants, releasing more significant amounts of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere. With carbon dioxide, it can lead to massive quick climate change, affecting the food sources and habitats of animals by means of trying to survive. The lives of wildlife are deeply impacted because their natural environment is destroyed, causing animals to be displaced.
Along with the environment of wildlife, the environment of the people living in these counties was highly distraught. 23,526 acres of land were burned and ruined in the Santa Ana Mountains in Southern California. Extensive property damage, including homes and businesses, was terminated. According to KTLA, a local news station in Los Angeles, C.A. it states, “While they are hoping to rebuild in the community they have loved for decades, they fear for some that will never be an option.”
Individuals across the Southern California counties are having to recreate their lives due to this horrific disaster. The Airport Wildfire significantly disrupted the lives of people and families living in the affected counties. According to KTLA, “The couple had less than an hour to pack and evacuate their home, which was soon engulfed by the flames.” Daily routines, an overall sense of security, and access to needed services are all concerns for the purpose of these individuals. All of this tragedy has resulted in the population trying to cope with their losses and the need to rebuild their lives.
The Airport Wildfire has made a massive difference in the wildlife, landscape, and day-to-day lifestyle of the overwhelmed residents in Southern California. Southern California continues to try to assist its displaced members with donations, housing, and other supportive services. While the people may not fully mentally or physically recover from a disaster of this magnitude, the community continues to provide ongoing support to bring back some normality in the wake of such a tragedy.
