Scientists Investigating Depth of Ocean Damage From Los Angeles Wildfires

Fire debris and potentially toxic ash could affect wildlife and make the water unsafe for surfers and swimmers, especially after rainfall.

An aerial view of beachfront homes that burned in the Palisades Fire as wildfires caused damage and loss through the LA region in Malibu, California, on Jan. 15, 2025. Mario Tama/Getty Images

LOS ANGELES—On a recent Sunday, Tracy Quinn drove down the Pacific Coast Highway to assess damage wrought upon the coastline by the Palisades Fire.

The water line was darkened by ash. Burnt remnants of washing machines and dryers and metal appliances were strewn about the shoreline. Sludge carpeted the water’s edge. Waves during high tide lapped onto charred homes, pulling debris and potentially toxic ash into the ocean as they receded.