Unseen Toll: Wildfires' Lethal Legacy on Los Angeles

A recent study reveals that the January wildfires in Los Angeles indirectly caused 440 excess deaths, far exceeding the official count of 31. Factors include poor air quality and healthcare disruptions. These findings highlight the need for improved mortality estimation during climate-related disasters.

In January, Los Angeles was ravaged by wildfires that indirectly led to hundreds of deaths, vastly surpassing the official count of 31 lives lost, according to new research.

Published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the study estimates 440 'excess deaths' occurred due to factors like poor air quality from the fires. Health conditions such as heart and lung issues, as well as healthcare delays, contributed significantly to this increased mortality.

Researchers emphasize the necessity of alternative methods to quantify the mortality burden of wildfires, as official numbers fall short. Economic damages soared to over $250 billion, with Governor Gavin Newsom requesting $40 billion in aid.

(With inputs from agencies.)