Wildfires are becoming increasingly deadly due to the vast plumes of pollution they produce. In fact, researchers estimate that wildfire smoke causes up to 675,000 premature deaths annually worldwide, as well as various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
As climate change intensifies wildfires, air quality is deteriorating globally. Studies show that wildfire smoke erodes progress made in reducing particulate matter concentrations by about 25% in nearly three-quarters of US states since 2016. In California, the effect on air quality has offset public health gains from cleaner cars and factories.
Experts warn that if greenhouse gas emissions continue at current levels, mortality from wildfire smoke could increase by 50%. However, the Santa Ana winds blowing some of the smoke towards the ocean provide a silver lining. Health systems are adapting to the new normal by sending out air quality alerts to vulnerable patients.
To cope with poor air quality, residents can follow these precautions: keep an eye on air quality alerts, stay indoors, use air purifiers, wear N95 masks when venturing outside, and avoid strenuous exercise in bad air. By tackling climate change and reducing all forms of air pollution, we can alleviate the burden on health.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/11/climate/wildfire-smoke-risks.html