Get the latest tech news

Why Fires Spread Quickly in Modern Cities


Scientists warn that the devastating fires that killed at least 24 people and destroyed more than 12,000 structures in Los Angeles represent a new type of urban firestorm, distinct from traditional wilderness blazes. In densely populated areas, buildings themselves become fuel, creating a chain reac...

Scientists warn that the devastating fires that killed at least 24 people and destroyed more than 12,000 structures in Los Angeles represent a new type of urban firestorm, distinct from traditional wilderness blazes. In densely populated areas, buildings themselves become fuel, creating a chain reaction of destruction, researchers reported Friday in Nature.The fires were intensified by steep terrain, powerful winds and a climate pattern of extreme wet-to-dry conditions that created abundant fuel. Researchers say such urban fires are likely to become more frequent as populations expand into wildland areas and climate change accelerates.

Get the Android app

Or read this on Slashdot

Read more on:

Photo of fires

fires

Photo of modern cities

modern cities

Related news:

News photo

The Los Angeles Wildfires Have Created Another Problem—Unsafe Drinking Water

News photo

Gov. Gavin Newsom launches website to fight misinformation about California’s fires

News photo

Inconvenient truths about the fires burning in Los Angeles from two fire experts