The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, focusing on the Pacific Palisades community and the implications for urban areas as climate change intensifies. Actor Martin Short's love for that community and how James feels connected to it. Alongside an in-depth look at John Vaillant’s book Fire Weather, we uncover the growing wildfire threat to cities and practical ways to safeguard homes and lives.

Encore episode that followed the Pacific Palisades Fires in Los Angeles, January 2025. We will be back on August 14th with our Patreon episode and August 20th with a new regular episode.

UPDATE: CAL FIRE has marked Martin Short's home as 'undamaged'! This is contrary to the previous report by The Wrap.

CORRECTION on the size of screen to protect attic vents. It should be no bigger than 1/8" opening (we said 1/4" which is an out-dated guideline.)

Episode Highlights:

• Los Angeles Wildfires: Examining the catastrophic fires in Pacific Palisades, where a tight-knit, picturesque community was largely destroyed. We discuss the human stories, the risks of living in fire-prone areas, and the role of climate change in escalating wildfire events.
• Author John Vaillant: Insights from Fire Weather and Vaillant’s analysis of urban wildfires as a dire climate threat, with compelling clips from his talks and audiobook.
• The Cost of Fire Risk: Why insurers are pulling out of high-risk areas, leaving homeowners scrambling for alternatives like the FAIR Plan.
• Tokyo’s Disaster Preparedness: A spotlight on Tokyo’s remarkable infrastructure designed to mitigate natural disasters, from flood tunnels to seismic standards for buildings.
• Home Fire Safety Tips: Learn critical steps to reduce the risk of your home catching fire in a wildfire, including creating defensible spaces, fireproofing materials, and evacuation best practices.

Key Links Mentioned:

• Fire Weather by John Vaillant: Audiobook available here
• Induction Cooktop Review on Wirecutter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/copper-charlie-induction-stove-review/
• Raw video of Pacific Palisades fire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tt7VVdGcDzE

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