One Year After the LA Fires: What We’ve Learned and What Comes Next

Photo by Bailey Alexander on Unsplash

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Written by Alexander Ahn ’28

One year after the devastating Eaton and Palisades wildfires, Los Angeles is still rebuilding. What began as a natural disaster has become a long-term test of resilience, environmental awareness and community responsibility.

The fires burned tens of thousands of acres, destroyed thousands of homes and displaced entire communities. Even now, recovery is ongoing. According to research from Los Angeles County, debris removal alone required clearing millions of tons of ash, hazardous materials and structural remains, highlighting the scale of destruction and the complexity of rebuilding efforts.

Across affected areas, signs of progress are visible. Homes are being reconstructed, infrastructure is slowly returning and communities are working to restore a sense of normalcy. However, recovery has not been equal or easy. Many families continue to face insurance disputes, financial strain and delays in rebuilding. One year later, the effects of the fires remain deeply embedded in both the landscape and the lives of those impacted.

Beyond the human cost, the environmental damage has been severe. The fires destroyed ecosystems, displaced wildlife and left soil vulnerable to erosion and mudslides. Smoke and ash also contributed to dangerous air quality conditions that affected millions across Southern California. According to environmental research on wildfire impacts, these effects can persist for years, affecting both ecosystems and public health.

The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires point to a larger issue, climate change. Rising temperatures, prolonged drought and shifting weather patterns have created conditions where fires spread faster and burn more destructively. The LA fires serve as a clear example of how environmental changes are already affecting local communities.

At the same time, the response to the fires revealed the strength of community support. Volunteers, local organizations and government agencies worked together to provide relief, distribute resources and assist in rebuilding efforts. This collective response highlights the importance of community in times of crisis. For students and the younger generation, the fires carry an important message. Environmental issues are not distant or abstract. They are happening locally, affecting real people and communities. This reality creates a responsibility to stay informed, raise awareness and take action where possible.

One year after the LA fires, the focus is no longer only on what was lost, but on what can be learned. Recovery continues, but the larger challenge remains: preventing future disasters and building a more sustainable and prepared community. The fires may be over, but their impact is not. What happens next will determine whether Los Angeles is better prepared for the future or destined to face the same devastation again.