3 months ago
141
January 13, 2025 | 05:15 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Wildfires are among the most prevalent disasters to hit the United States (U.S.), notably impacting California and Hawaii. These states are particularly susceptible to such events due to their dry conditions and frequent heat waves, making them among the epicenters of the deadliest wildfires across the country.
The most recent incident saw wildfires ravaging California, destroying approximately 12,000 structures, as Tempo reported. US weather forecasting company AccuWeather estimated the damage and economic losses at US$135 billion to US$150 billion.
The U.S. has witnessed more wildfires in the past years, claiming lives and resulting in significant economic losses. Citing Fox Weather and other sources, here’s a look at some of the worst wildfires in U.S. history.
1. Maui Brush Fires, Hawaii (2023)
The brush fires that occurred in Hawaii in August 2023 are often considered the worst wildfire in the modern history of the U.S. Reportedly triggered by utility lines, the incident caused more than US$5 billion in damage and led to the deaths of at least 102 people.
The official website of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency also mentions that the fire, which impacted approximately 1,550 parcels and 2,200 buildings, was enabled by high winds and dry weather conditions.
2. Summer Fire Siege, California (2020)
Lightning can be a significant cause of wildfires. In mid-August 2020, California experienced over 650 wildfires triggered by thunderstorms, with nearly 14,000 lightning strikes recorded. This thunderstorm activity was believed to be the remnants of Tropical Storm Fausto.
Reports from CAL Fire suggested that the incident burned 2,529,000 acres. The event resulted in the loss of approximately 30 lives and caused damage equivalent to US$14.3 billion.
3. Camp Fire, California (2018)
In 2018, Northern California witnessed how the Camp Fire consumed about 153,000 acres and destroyed 18,000 structures. This disaster resulted in the tragic loss of 88 lives, making it among the worst wildfires in U.S. history.
4. October Fire Siege, California (2017)
The term "October Fire Siege" refers to a series of destructive wildfires that occurred across Northern California in October 2017. Among these was the Tubbs Fire, which burned nearly 250,000 acres and caused US$14 billion in damage.
5. Griffith Park Fire, California (1933)
In the fall of 1933, a fire broke out in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. The fire, which was sparked by a pile of debris ignited during a project, consumed less than 50 acres and resulted in 29 fatalities.
FOX WEATHER | EPA.GOV
Editor’s Choice: Los Angeles Wildfire: How Did It Spread So Fast?
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Los Angeles Races to Contain Wildfires Before Severe Winds Return
1 jam lalu
Firefighters raced to contain the frontiers of two Los Angeles wildfires that burned for the sixth straight day.
Los Angeles Wildfire: How Did It Spread So Fast?
5 jam lalu
Six simultaneous wildfires have ravaged Los Angeles County neighborhoods since Tuesday, killing at least 16 people & destroying 10,000 buildings.
Los Angeles Wildfire Victims at Least 16, With 97 Indonesians Affected
10 jam lalu
As of Sunday, January 12, 2025, the number of victims of the Los Angeles fires has increased from 11 to 16 people.
Trump Says California Leaders Incompetent in Handling Los Angeles Wildfires
20 jam lalu
US President-elect Donald Trump accuses California officials of incompetence over their handling of the Los Angeles wildfires.
Iran Ready to Provide Rescue Aid for Los Angeles Wildfires
21 jam lalu
The Iranian Red Crescent Society is ready to send special rapid response teams in response to the Los Angeles wildfires in California, US.
Los Angeles Fire, What Are the Health Risks?
1 hari lalu
The Los Angeles fires are blanketing the surrounding area in acrid smog, a haze of smoke carrying dangerous gases that pose serious health risks.
Los Angeles Wildfire Switches Direction, Posing New Threat
1 hari lalu
The largest of the raging wildfires that have devastated parts of Los Angeles this week was reported to have shifted direction on Saturday.
97 Indonesian Citizens Affected by Wildfires in Los Angeles
2 hari lalu
As many as 97 Indonesian citizens have been affected by wildfires in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Wildfires Trigger Air Quality Warnings and Health Concerns
2 hari lalu
This week, as the wildfires raged and smoke billowed across Los Angeles, officials issued air quality alerts.
Los Angeles Firefighters Make Progress as Intense Winds Ease
2 hari lalu
Firefighters finally started gaining control over two major wildfires on the eastern and western flanks of Los Angeles on Friday.
