By : Prof. Santosh Kumar
NEW YORK : As I traveled through the United States over the last three weeks, I witnessed the sheer power of nature and humanity’s resilience in the face of it. From the tornadoes that swept through the southern states during December 26–29, to the raging forest fires in California, and the snowstorm that blanketed Dallas on January 9–10, I observed firsthand the country’s disaster warning systems, preparedness, and response mechanisms.
One thing stood out above all—the unyielding commitment to protecting human life. In the United States, where life is regarded as precious, disaster preparedness is not just a technical undertaking but a fundamental principle rooted in compassion and love. This ethos is a testament to what a nation can achieve when it prioritizes safety and resilience.
As the 2025 California wildfires continue to burn, this principle is being tested like never before. The devastation, including the Palisades Fire that has scorched over 23,000 acres, claimed at least 16 lives, and destroyed more than 5,000 structures, underscores the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events. With economic losses estimated between $135 billion and $150 billion, Governor Gavin Newsom has called this disaster potentially the worst natural calamity in U.S. history.
Fighting Fire with Innovation: California’s Strategies
California has long been at the forefront of wildfire management, employing a combination of advanced technology, proactive community engagement, and robust interagency coordination.
1.Advanced Detection: The use of satellite imaging, drones, and artificial intelligence has been pivotal in early fire detection and risk assessment.
2.Prescribed Burns: Controlled fires reduce fuel loads, preventing catastrophic wildfires.
3.Mutual Aid Agreements: Collaboration across state and federal agencies ensures swift resource mobilization.
4.Public Awareness Campaigns: Programs like “Ready, Set, Go!” educate residents on preparedness and evacuation protocols.
However, the 2025 fires have underscored the limitations of these measures. Despite technological advancements, extreme weather patterns—prolonged droughts, intense Santa Ana winds, and high temperatures—continue to overwhelm firefighting efforts.
Global Best Practices in Wildfire Management
Countries worldwide have developed innovative solutions to tackle wildfires. Here are some noteworthy examples:
•Australia: Indigenous knowledge of cultural burns reduces fuel loads and preserves biodiversity.
•Canada: AI-driven fire-risk mapping enables early detection and faster resource allocation.
•Portugal: Fire-resistant tree plantations like cork oak and diversified forests minimize risks.
•Finland: Sustainable forestry practices, including regular thinning and firebreak creation, mitigate fire hazards.
•South Africa: The Firewise program empowers rural communities to adopt fire-safe practices.
Lessons for India: Preparing for Large-Scale Fires
As India grapples with its own fire-related challenges—ranging from forest fires in Uttarakhand to industrial fires in densely populated areas—the country can draw valuable lessons from California and beyond:
1.Early Detection and Monitoring: India can leverage ISRO’s satellite technology and AI to predict and monitor fire risks.
2.Community Participation: Training local communities and launching awareness campaigns can empower citizens to act swiftly during crises.
3.Sustainable Forestry: Prohibit monoculture plantations and promote fire-resistant species to reduce forest vulnerability.
4.Climate-Resilient Policies: Integrate fire management into climate action plans to address underlying causes like droughts and deforestation.
5.Specialized Fire Units: Establish wildfire-specific units within firefighting services, equipped with advanced tools and training.
What Could Have Been Done in California?
The 2025 wildfires highlight areas where preventive measures could have mitigated the damage:
•Improved Land Management: Regular removal of dead vegetation and creation of firebreaks.
•Upgraded Infrastructure: Enhancing water storage systems and ensuring hydrant availability.
•Stronger Policies: Enforcing stricter building codes and incentivizing fire-resistant construction.
•Global Cooperation: Sharing data and best practices through international partnerships.
The Road Ahead
The California wildfires of 2025 are a sobering reminder of the growing threat posed by climate change and human activity. Addressing these challenges requires a global effort, blending technology, traditional knowledge, and proactive policies. For nations like India, the lessons from California offer a roadmap to building resilience against similar disasters.
As the embers of this tragedy smolder, it’s time for a renewed commitment to protecting lives, livelihoods, and landscapes from the devastating grip of fire.
Santosh Kumar
CEO, IISSM
Author and Analyst on Disaster Management and Climate Resilience & Chief Consulting Editor-ICN
