How LA Wildfires Could Affect Our Ocean Friends 🌊🔥
Hey everyone! Did you know that the big wildfires in Los Angeles might be causing trouble for the ocean and the animals that live there? Let’s find out how and why scientists are working hard to keep our oceans safe!
What Happened in Los Angeles?
Recently, wildfires called the Palisades and Eaton fires burned many homes, shops, cars, and even electronics in Los Angeles. When things like plastics, metals, and other materials burn, they turn into ash that can be really bad for the environment.
Why Is the Ash Dangerous?
The ash from these fires isn’t just ordinary ash. It can contain harmful substances like pesticides (used to kill pests), asbestos (a dangerous material once used in buildings), plastics, lead, and heavy metals. Yikes! 😯
How Can This Affect the Ocean?
When it rains, the water can wash this toxic ash and debris into rivers and streams that lead to the Pacific Ocean. This means the harmful materials could end up in the ocean where fish, dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life live.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
If dangerous chemicals get into the ocean, they can make the water unsafe for marine animals. It could also affect the food chain. That means not only the small fish could be harmed, but also the bigger animals (like sharks and whales) that eat them. And guess what? It can even affect the seafood that people eat!
What Are Scientists Doing?
Scientists are racing to test the ocean water to see if it’s safe. They’re checking for toxins, metals, and tiny pieces of plastic called microplastics. They are also testing fish and other sea creatures to see if they have any harmful substances in their bodies.
What Are Officials Doing?
Local helpers are putting up barriers like concrete walls and sandbags to stop the ash and debris from reaching the ocean. They’re also keeping an eye on the weather because mudslides (when a lot of mud and rocks slide down a hill) can carry even more debris into the water.
Is the Ocean Safe Right Now?
So far, tests show that the water is still okay for swimming and playing. That’s great news! 😊 But scientists will keep checking to make sure it stays that way.
What Can We Learn?
This shows us how important it is to take care of our environment. When wildfires happen, they can affect not just the land but also the water and all the creatures that depend on it.
How Can You Help?
- Learn more about wildfires and how they start.
- Support efforts to prevent fires by being careful with campfires and fireworks.
- Spread the word about protecting our oceans!
Remember, every little bit helps in keeping our planet healthy and safe for everyone! 🌎💙
Reference(s):
Scientists race to detect ocean damage sparked by LA wildfires
cgtn.com
