The California Fires – Experts Warn That Preparation is Key

Last Tuesday, the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history began and wildfires continue to rage destroying entire neighbourhoods across LA County. 

Last Tuesday, the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history began and wildfires continue to rage destroying entire neighbourhoods across LA County. Though LA is no stranger to bushfires, the impact of climate change means winter fires have now become a devastating reality.  

As the world expresses solidarity with everyone impacted due to the fires, including the massive toll on livelihoods, businesses, communities and cultural heritage, disaster experts have issued a warning about the importance of assessing and mitigating extreme weather risks here in Australia. In several media statements, Australia’s Minister for Emergency Management, the Hon Jenny McAllister has expressed confidence that Australia is well prepared to tackle the challenges emerging from its current bushfire season.  

The Bureau of Meteorology’s (BoM) latest State of the Climate report highlights that there has been a continued increase in the length of the extreme weather season in Australia over the years. The federal government has opened a review – set to be published later this year - into longer term firefighting resources and procurement models, including aerial capabilities. It will consider the lengthening of fire seasons in the northern and southern hemispheres. 

Experts suggest there are various ways in which the challenges posed by extreme weather risks can be tackled here in Australia. For example, Greg Mullins, the former commissioner of Fire and Rescue NSW said that Australia urgently need to increase its own firefighting aircraft capability and work on treating the root cause, which is greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, others such as Dr. Roslyn Prinsley, Head of the Australian National University's Disaster Solutions suggest that a more radical approach is required and new ways of combatting bushfires, including satellite technology and AI are needed. 

Insurance brokers play a critical role for communities, families and businesses in early preparation and supporting them by providing vital information and education on risk assessments and mitigation. Also, brokers are the first port of call for many in the aftermath of these events as devastated communities navigate their way through claims processes.  

Rigorous planning, early intervention and collaboration between government and industry at all levels is key so we are best prepared to tackle challenges posed by extreme weather events, which as the evidence suggests, are getting more and more frequent not only in Australia, but also across the globe.