E115: The Science Behind LA Wildfires: Fire Expert Jon Keeley

Dr. Jon Keeley, senior scientist at the U.S. Geological Survey and professor at UCLA, joins us to break down the record-breaking 2025 California wildfires. He explains how drought, wind, power lines, and population growth created a perfect storm—and why prevention, not firefighting, may be our best defense.

Topics Covered:

• Why the 2025 wildfires were so destructive
• Santa Ana winds and drought patterns
• Human ignition sources: power lines & arson
• How home design and zoning can reduce risk
• Myths about fire ecology in Southern California
• Lessons for the future: prevention over blame

Guest Info: Dr. Jon Keeley is one of the world’s leading fire ecologists, with over 40 years of research on wildfires, climate, and land use in the American West.

• 📺Watch the full episode on YouTube➡️https://youtu.be/07R5OphHG6E

🎙 The Pod is hosted by Jesse Wright
💬 For guest suggestions, questions, or media inquiries, reach out at https://elpodcast.media/
📬 Never miss an episode – subscribe and follow wherever you get your podcasts.
⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show. It helps others find us.

Thanks for listening!