"Massive swaths of land have burned annually across the state, and rebuilding can take years after the ashes have been swept away. Toxic chemicals linger in the scorched soils even longer, and can make their way into water sources, said Ann Willis, California regional director with American Rivers, a nonprofit focused on protecting clean water resources. Those toxins including heavy metals such as lead, zinc and copper could be harmful if consumed."
"Cal Fire and other agencies are currently responding to at least 16 fires across the state, according to Cal Fire data. They include the Gifford Fire, which has burned about 131,614 acres in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, and the TCU September Lightning Complex, in which 13,869 acres have burned near the Don Pedro Reservoir in Toulumne, Calaveras, Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties."
Wildfires in California are becoming more intense and frequent, particularly near reservoirs, increasing threats to water resources. Massive swaths of land burn annually, and rebuilding can take years after ashes are swept away. Toxic chemicals linger in scorched soils and can enter water sources, including heavy metals such as lead, zinc and copper that can be harmful if consumed. These contaminants and related health impacts can persist for years after fires. Recent major fires include the 2018 Camp Fire, 2020 CZU Lightning Complex, Eaton and Palisades fires, and current incidents like the Gifford Fire and the TCU September Lightning Complex near Don Pedro Reservoir.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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