On Jan. 7, 2025, Los Angeles experienced one of the worst wildfires in decades. Four fires burned across the state, causing 29 deaths. Nearly 20,000 people were affected, having to evacuate from their homes and many being left homeless. While the original cause of the devastating fires has not yet been determined, scientists have confirmed that the hot, dry conditions caused by climate change have significantly worsened the extent of the damage the wildfires have caused. The strong Santa Ana winds have also intensified conditions by stripping the vegetation of moisture, allowing fires to catch and spread easily.

While the fires raged in California, they also affected the Taipei American School (TAS) community in Taiwan. Many members of the TAS student body and faculty have been struck. Numerous students and teachers have family residing in Los Angeles and the nearby area, creating a sense of worry and concern among them. Many others also consider California their home and often return for vacations.

Reina C. (’28) and Austin B. (’28) have shared similar experiences regarding the wildfires, both having families, friends and properties in LA. Austin shared his aunt’s experience with the fires, stating that her commute to work had been greatly disrupted, making the journey significantly longer, as the roads were blocked. “[During the fires], the skies in Pasadena have turned really red and it [was] a constant presence around the area,” said Austin. Moreover, Reina also commented how her family’s property in LA was close to being ruined and expressed her concern for future fires. “This could have an economic impact all throughout the world,” she said. They both agreed that the local authorities did the best they could do to stop the fires and support those affected, but also emphasized how the fire department in California could have been more prepared.

Ms. Hsiao, a member of the math department at TAS also voiced her story and how her family and friends have been affected. With her family living near Pasadena, she first found out about the wildfires from her sister. She mentioned that her family lives close to the Eaton fire. “The air quality was really bad, and we did move things out of the house, just like important documents,” she said. Furthermore, she stated that while she is concerned about future wildfires in the area, it is a common occurrence, and people have become used to them over time. With climate change worsening the degree and severity of these wildfires, the TAS community must stay prepared and alert in the future.