In this conversation, Dr. Jon Keeley discusses the escalating wildfire crisis in California, emphasizing the unique conditions that contribute to these disasters. He highlights the role of climate change, urban sprawl, and human activity in exacerbating fire risks. The discussion also covers the historical context of fire management and the need for improved community planning to mitigate future wildfire impacts. In this conversation, Dr. Jon Keeley discusses the complexities of wildfire management in California, emphasizing the importance of land planning, home protection strategies, and community engagement. He highlights the unique challenges posed by recent catastrophic fires, the ecological role of wildfires, and the need for ongoing research to inform future fire prevention efforts.
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.
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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.