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As Southern California Fires Rage, Medical Aid En Route

Emergency medical aid, N-95 respirators and other critical supplies are being deployed to wildfire impacted communties where thousands are experiencing evacuations.

News

California Wildfires

Direct Relief delivering masks and essential supplies to fire-impacted communities throughout California. (Photo: Direct Relief)
By Brea Burkholz

Direct Relief is responding to five active wildfires that erupted overnight across Southern California, fueled by strong winds and dry vegetation. The fires, four of which are in Los Angeles County and one in Riverside County, come amid extreme fire weather conditions caused by severe offshore winds and parched landscapes.

Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blazes, which continue to threaten homes and communities across the region. The most dangerous conditions are expected to persist through today, with gusts up to 100 mph in some areas, according to the National Weather Service.

Direct Relief’s Preparedness and Response Efforts

Smoke rises from the Palisades Fire in Southern California on Jan. 7, 2025. (Photo courtesy of ALERTCalifornia, UC San Diego)

Direct Relief has activated its emergency response protocols and is in communication with local health providers and emergency management teams in the affected areas.

The organization is currently deploying medical aid, including emergency medical supplies for first responders and displaced residents, and respiratory protection equipment, including N95 respirators, to mitigate health risks from smoke exposure.

Supporting Fire-Affected Communities

Direct Relief has a long-standing commitment to supporting communities affected by wildfires. In recent years, the organization has:

  • Delivered more than $6 million in medical aid during the 2021 wildfire season.
  • Supplied critical resources, such as oxygen concentrators, air purifiers, and medical equipment, to health centers in fire-prone areas.
  • Provided grants to local health organizations for ongoing recovery efforts.

Health Impacts of Wildfires

Wildfires not only destroy homes and infrastructure but also have significant and long-lasting effects on public health. As wildfires become more frequent and severe, the health risks to individuals and communities continue to grow, particularly for those already vulnerable.

More than 100,000 people have been evacuated as a result of fires in Southern California. Direct Relief is mobilizing medical support, including items for evacuees. (CALFIRE map)

Health impacts of wildfires include:

  • Long-Term Exposure Risks: Prolonged exposure to poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke can have cumulative effects, including developmental impacts on children and worsening of chronic diseases.
  • Respiratory Illnesses: Smoke from wildfires contains harmful fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that can penetrate deep into the lungs, exacerbating asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic respiratory conditions.
  • Cardiovascular Strain: Exposure to wildfire smoke is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues, particularly for older adults and those with pre-existing conditions.
  • Mental Health Effects: The trauma of evacuation, loss of homes, and disruption to daily life can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Displacement and Health Access: Evacuations often disrupt access to essential medications, medical care, and support services, disproportionately affecting those in underserved communities.

Why Direct Relief Focuses on Communities Impacted by Wildfires

Direct Relief prioritizes wildfire response because these disasters often exacerbate existing health inequities. Communities that lack access to healthcare and resources are disproportionately affected by wildfires, both during and after the event.

Immediate Support for First Responders and Health Centers: Wildfires place immense pressure on local healthcare systems. Direct Relief ensures first responders and health providers have access to the emergency medical supplies and equipment needed to save lives.

Smoke Mitigation Resources: Providing N95 masks, air purifiers, and oxygen concentrators helps protect respiratory health in affected areas, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions.

Focus on Underserved Populations: By supporting community health centers and free clinics, Direct Relief ensures those who are uninsured or underinsured receive care during emergencies.

Recovery and Resilience: After the flames are extinguished, the organization continues to support long-term recovery efforts by funding health services, replacing damaged medical supplies, and helping communities rebuild healthcare infrastructure.

Direct Relief’s commitment to wildfire-affected communities is rooted in the understanding that disasters impact health in profound ways. By equipping healthcare providers and delivering targeted aid, the organization works to alleviate the immediate and long-term health challenges caused by wildfires.

As the Southern California fires continue to spread, Direct Relief remains ready to assist communities and healthcare providers on the front lines.

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