California experienced 8,110 wildfires in 2024, more than any other US state. The Eaton and Palisades fires in Los Angeles resulted in nearly $40 billion in insured losses and approximately 30 deaths. Senator Alex Padilla urged increased federal investment in fire preparedness, contrasting with President Trump's suggested reductions. Scientists predict an increase in wildfire activity as summer progresses, particularly in drought-stricken areas of southern California, although the intensity of the season remains difficult to predict due to various factors including weather patterns and human negligence.

Despite some progress in fuel reduction efforts like prescribed burns by Cal Fire, experts emphasize the need for greater scale to mitigate the impact of wildfires. Concerns are rising about potential negative impacts from federal cuts to weather forecasting and emergency services under the Trump administration, impacting crucial predictive modeling and response capabilities. These cuts have already resulted in staff reductions at the National Weather Service and internal challenges at FEMA. President Trump has also threatened to withhold disaster aid from states like California based on unrelated policy disagreements.

Impact Statement: The upcoming wildfire season in the US, particularly in California, poses significant risks due to a confluence of factors including drought conditions, potential political underfunding of crucial services, and the ongoing challenges of effective fuel reduction strategies.