Health care system adaptation and resilience during the wildfire crisis (19 March 2025)

Summary

The catastrophic wildfires that devastated Los Angeles County in January 2025 were caused by an unprecedented combination of extreme weather conditions and urban vulnerability. Within a span of hours, the Palisades and Eaton fires, propelled by record-breaking Santa Ana winds reaching 150 miles per hour, consumed more than 37,000 acres, destroyed more than 16,000 structures and claimed 29 lives. The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires present new challenges to healthcare systems, particularly in regions prone to these disasters. Staffing shortages, burnout and disaster fatigue are all major issues. This analysis in JAMA examines important aspects of health care system response during wildfire emergencies, offering evidence-based recommendations for institutional preparedness and adaptation.