LA Wildfires: Rapid Research Response Series
In light of the devastating wildfires affecting Los Angeles, the UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge and the UCLA Latino Policy & Politics Institute, in collaboration with their research partners, have launched a rapid research response to assess the impacts of these disasters on disadvantaged populations and communities. These analyses highlight the urgent need for policymakers to adopt equitable and just policy responses as Los Angeles begins rebuilding from the destruction caused by the wildfires.
Wildfire Impacts on Small Businesses in Altadena and Pacific Palisades
UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge
UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
These three briefs examine how the January 2025 wildfires affected local businesses in Altadena and the Pacific Palisades. The series highlights how microbusinesses, which make up most of the local business landscape, were disproportionately affected by the fires and their aftermath.
- Data Brief 1: The Local Business Landscape Before the Wildfires
- Data Brief 2: Business Damages from the Wildfires
- Data Brief 3: Six-Month Assessment of Business Status
Asian American Language Needs in L.A. Wildfires
UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge
UCLA Asian American Studies Center
UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
AAPI Equity Alliance
With significant language barriers in L.A. County’s Asian American communities, effective communication during disasters remains a critical challenge. Ensuring that all residents receive life-saving information requires culturally and linguistically appropriate action.
L.A. Wildfires: Impacts on Altadena’s Black Community
UCLA Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies
UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge
UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
The Eaton Fire exposed how decades of segregation and redlining have left Black households more vulnerable, a legacy that should be taken in account in future recovery efforts and allocation of emergency resources.
Wildfires and Latino Communities: Analysis of Residents, Workers, and Jobs in LA County Fire Evacuation Zones
UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge
At least 35,000 jobs held by Latinos were at risk of temporary or permanent displacement due to the Palisades, Eaton and Hurst wildfires, data show. Among the most vulnerable workers due to their already precarious position in the labor market, Latinos face a greater risk of economic displacement and financial hardship.
Wildfires and Latino Communities: Health, Economic, and Preparedness Challenges
UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge
Wildfires in Los Angeles County have led to disproportionate risks to Latino communities due to pre-existing health vulnerabilities, economic challenges, and systemic gaps in emergency preparedness and health resources.