A new study reveals that people with limited access to air conditioning (AC) face higher risks of emergency care visits when exposed to wildfire smoke, particularly for respiratory issues. The research, which analyzed over 50,000 emergency department visits during California’s 2012 to 2019 wildfire seasons, found that those in areas with lower air conditioning availability had a 22% greater risk of respiratory-related emergency visits.
The study’s findings are especially relevant as Southern California battles multiple wildfires in January 2025, including the unprecedented Palisades fire in Los Angeles County. Children under 10 and adults aged 20 to 74 showed higher rates of emergency department visits. Additionally, Black populations showed higher rates of emergency department visits, though elevated rates were also observed across other racial groups. As climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of wildfires, the researchers emphasize the need for better public education about air conditioning filter ratings and economic assistance for marginalized populations in smoke-prone regions.