Leading Scientists Conclude Climate Change Increased the Likelihood of Fatal Forest Fires

Firefighters and Climate Change Impact

Firefighters in Los Angeles, who departed from a charitable organization supporting over 2,500 injured workers in the music industry, were “more likely” to be affected by climate change, according to a group of leading climatologists.

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Research from World Weather Attribution indicated that the hot, dry, and windy conditions leading to fires in the California city were “35 percent more likely due to climate warming, primarily caused by burning oil, gas, and coal.”

Fires and Community Response

The fires, which ignited on January 7, resulted in 28 fatalities, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and forced the evacuation of more than 150,000 residents.

Meanwhile, the number of members in the local music community receiving support from the Musicares-Real Grammy division has more than doubled since the beginning of the disaster.

Ecologists warn that fossil fuel combustion raises global temperatures, leading to a changing climate and more frequent extreme weather events like heatwaves and droughts.

A recent study gathered researchers from various countries, including Brazil, the Netherlands, the UK, the USA, and Sweden, to assess how climate change contributed to this month’s fires.

The analysis suggests that climate change is extending the conditions favorable for fire in Los Angeles by approximately 23 days each year at the current rate of global heating. They concluded that the threat posed by the “fire season” is becoming longer and more severe.

The report also highlights that Los Angeles’s water infrastructure struggled to meet the emergency demands created by the scale of the fires. City officials recognized early in the disaster the significant stress on emergency services.

Support for the Music Community

The authors issued a stern warning to residents of Los Angeles, particularly its music community, which is celebrated for its rich musical heritage. The city is home to numerous iconic music venues and a vibrant local music economy that includes music stores and community centers.

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Williams Park, a geography professor at the University of California and a report participant, stated: “Communities can’t recover the same way, as it will take many years for these burned areas to regenerate, and there is a high potential for rapid re-ignition of fires in these landscapes.”

Co-author Dr. Frederick Otto of the Global Network for Weather Attribution warned, “From brutal hurricanes in the east to catastrophic wildfires in the west, Americans are facing destructive consequences from fossil fuel warming.”

“In 2025, the choice facing world leaders remains the same – continue drilling and burning oil, gas, and coal, or shift to renewable energy for a safer, more equitable world.”

Earlier this January, Musicares, the charity division of the Grammy and Academy of Sound Recording, acted swiftly to support members of the music community affected by the fires. A representative from the organization told NME about the significant losses experienced by many.

In a recent update provided to NME, Musicares confirmed that they are now supporting 2,500 individuals.

“Musicares is committed to being a safety net for the music community,” stated Teresa Walters, vice president of health and social services. “Over 2,500 music professionals have already reached out for help, and this number continues to grow.”

“We understand that the road to recovery will be long. Our role doesn’t end with immediate assistance; we will be here to help those rebuilding their lives once they’re ready to return to their homes—or confronting the reality of no home to return to.”

Walters also noted that this week is pivotal for both Los Angeles and the global music calendar. Two benefit concerts are set to take place on Thursday, January 30, with more events on Sunday, February 2.

“Our main focus is on the collective resilience of the Los Angeles community,” said Walters. “Musicares is here to support the people behind the music because music contributes immensely to the world, and it’s vital that no one is left behind.”

At the Fire Aid show, artists such as Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Gracie Abrams, Olivia Rodrigo, and Stevie Wonder will perform at LA’s Intuit Dome. Meanwhile, bands like Green Day, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Anderson .Paak are lined up for a performance at the Kia Forum’s Concert of Hope.

Both concerts will be streamed globally on platforms including Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime to raise funds for fire victims.

The organizers announced that proceeds from the concerts will be allocated to short-term support efforts and long-term initiatives aimed at preventing future fire disasters across Southern California.

These special concerts are scheduled just 72 hours ahead of this year’s Grammy Awards taking place at the Crypto.com Arena in the city.

This annual ceremony will feature performances from notable artists such as Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, Benson Boone, Rae, Sabrina Carpenter, Teddy Swims, Billie Eilish, Shakira, Chris Martin, Stevie Wonder, Saint Vincent, and many more.

At the awards, Beyoncé leads with 11 nominations, including Album of the Year, Best Country Album, and Song of the Year for “Texas Hold ‘Em.” Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, Post Malone, and Charli XCX are also in contention with seven nominations each.

Meanwhile, Blink-182 has announced a charity concert with Alkaline Trio, set to take place at a renowned Los Angeles concert venue on Thursday the 13th. All ticket proceeds from this event, produced by Live Nation, which has already pledged $1 million (£813,355) to assist the music community affected by recent fires, will benefit organizations like the Pasadena Humane Society, California Fire Foundation, LAFD Fund, and the Arc Firefighter Foundation.

To learn more about Musicares and its efforts to support music industry professionals during this challenging time, visit: www.musicares.org/get-help