Scientists investigate ocean pollution from Los Angeles wildfires

Wildfires that scorched coastal communities near Los Angeles have sent ash, heavy metals and hazardous debris into the Pacific Ocean, raising concerns about water safety and marine life.

Dorany Pineda reports for The Associated Press.

In short:

• The Palisades and Eaton fires burned thousands of homes and businesses, releasing pollutants like lead, asbestos and plastics into the ocean.
• Scientists detected fire debris up to 100 miles offshore and are studying how deep and far contaminants have spread.
• Officials are testing water for heavy metals, microplastics and other toxic compounds while working to prevent further pollution from storm runoff.

Key quote:

"Reports are already showing that there was a lot of lead and asbestos in the ash. This is really bad for people so it's probably also very bad for the marine organisms."

— Julie Dinasquet, marine ecologist, Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Why this matters:

Wildfires don’t just destroy land — they also threaten ocean ecosystems. When homes and vehicles burn, they release toxic substances that can harm marine life and contaminate seafood. Rainfall can wash these pollutants into the ocean, compounding long-term risks. Researchers are trying to understand how urban fire debris affects water quality and whether it enters the food chain.

Read more: Toxic pollution persists after Los Angeles wildfires devastate communities