Rainfall in Los Angeles can have both positive and negative effects on wildfires. According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), rain helps extinguish active fires and replenishes water sources. However, after significant rain events, vegetation can grow rapidly, leading to increased fire hazards as it dries out in the summer heat.
Fire officials emphasize the importance of managing vegetation to reduce the buildup of combustible materials. The timing of rain events is critical; rain that falls too late in the season may not prevent wildfires, while early rain can lead to rapid vegetation growth that becomes a fire hazard later.
