Greek professor warns of contaminated water because of California wildfires:

The region is being swept by massive wildfires that have consumed thousands of acres of land, homes, and facilities worth billions of dollars while leaving 10 dead so far. At the same time, hundreds of prisoners have been thrown into the battle with the flames, according to international media.

Specifically, speaking to ERT on Friday morning, Christopoulos described dramatically the conditions experienced by the residents of the American metropolis and the surrounding areas. “We can’t move outside. The water is problematic and the environment is toxic,” he said from Pasadena where he spoke. Residents, he noted, are forced to use only bottled water, as contamination of the water supply system makes it impossible to use the water even for brushing teeth or cooking.

He further pointed out that air toxicity has necessitated the use of masks by residents, while authorities warn of serious public health risks.

“The fire right now is not even 1 percent controlled,” the professor stressed, explaining that the fire is mostly burning in the mountains and has not yet entered the city where he lives. Nevertheless, the speed at which it is spreading is a matter of grave concern.“The strong winds, reaching 150-200 kilometers per hour, have aggravated the situation, causing biblical destruction,” he said.
According to Christopoulos, the psychology of residents has collapsed, with many comparing the conditions to those of a war: “The situation is reminiscent of war conditions. California has experience with fires, but this is unprecedented and uncontrollable.”

Fire fronts in Los Angeles

Authorities and residents are battling to cope with the unprecedented conditions. However, the devastation already wrought makes recovery particularly difficult, and the climate crisis continues to pose new challenges for California and the planet.At least 10 people have died in the fires raging around Los Angeles, the county coroner’s office said late Thursday night (local time).

“The coroner’s office has been notified of 10 deaths associated with the fires,” it noted in a statement, adding that the process of identifying the victims and notifying their families is ongoing.

Unstoppable water and retardant foam spraying

Meanwhile, in the smoke-blackened skies of Los Angeles, dozens of firefighting aircraft and helicopters were non-stop dropping water or retardant foam yesterday to contain the flames ravaging sectors of the Californian metropolis.

Authorities have urged people to conserve water as reservoirs are being emptied and firefighters are now turning to pools and fountains to stock up.