Millions in California at Risk Where Oil Wells and Wildfires Converge

As wildfires rage across California, millions of residents living near oil and gas wells face heightened risks from explosions, pollution, and infrastructure damage. As reported by Hayley Smith, a study in the journal One Earth found that over 100,000 wells in the western U.S., primarily in California, are located in high fire-risk areas, putting nearly 3 million people at greater danger. These wells, both active and inactive, present significant hazards during wildfires due to potential leaks and combustible emissions.

California's oil wells, especially in Los Angeles, Fresno, Kern, and Orange counties, are particularly vulnerable. Historical incidents, such as the 2015 Aliso Canyon gas leak and the 2017 Thomas Fire, highlight the dangers, which are expected to increase with climate change. The study found a significant rise in wells within wildfire burn areas over recent decades, with further increases projected by mid-century. This growing risk underscores the need for proactive measures to protect affected communities.

Efforts to address these risks include California's recent legislation prohibiting new wells near homes, schools, and healthcare facilities, as well as increased funding for plugging abandoned wells. However, the study warns of a "pernicious feedback loop" where fossil fuel production exacerbates global warming, which in turn intensifies the frequency and severity of wildfires. This cycle necessitates stronger actions to reduce fossil fuel reliance and enhance safety for those living near oil and gas infrastructure.

The study also highlights that exposure to oil wells in wildfire-prone areas disproportionately affects Black, Latino, and Native American communities. These groups often reside in neighborhoods with a higher density of oil wells due to historical redlining and economic factors. Addressing these environmental justice issues requires comprehensive strategies to limit drilling in high-risk areas, improve monitoring technologies, and enforce stricter safety regulations to protect vulnerable populations.