As devastating wildfires rage through Los Angeles in January 2025, firefighting teams have turned to an unconventional solution - using seawater from the Pacific Ocean to battle the flames. While this may seem like an obvious choice given the ocean's vast water supply, experts warn that saltwater comes with notable drawbacks and risks.
Currently, specialized aircraft known as Super Scoopers are collecting approximately 1,500 gallons of seawater per trip, carefully releasing it over active fire zones when wind conditions permit. This tactic has become necessary due to limited freshwater resources in the area.
However, fire officials typically avoid using saltwater except as a last resort. The salt content can severely corrode expensive firefighting equipment over time. More concerning are the potential environmental impacts, particularly in Los Angeles' chaparral shrublands which are not naturally exposed to saltwater.
Recent research provides insights into how saltwater affects inland ecosystems. At the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, scientists conducted experiments exposing forest areas to saltwater. Their findings revealed that while ecosystems showed initial resilience to brief saltwater exposure, prolonged contact led to premature leaf browning and bare tree canopies. The soil also experienced lasting changes, with water drawn from treated areas turning brown from leached plant compounds.
The situation in Los Angeles presents additional challenges. Unlike the experimental conditions, firefighting planes are using full-strength ocean water in an already dry climate. Without sufficient rainfall to wash away the salt, the environmental impact could be more severe and long-lasting.
The current reliance on seawater highlights broader challenges facing coastal regions. As global temperatures rise and sea levels increase, more inland areas are experiencing saltwater intrusion. This creates new risks for landscapes previously unexposed to oceanic conditions.
While seawater remains a valuable tool in emergency firefighting situations, its use underscores the difficult choices officials must make when battling severe wildfires with limited resources. The long-term effects on Los Angeles' ecosystem remain to be seen, adding another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation.