This L.A. photographer is still capturing the ongoing devastation from January's fires
Briefly

On January 7, 2025, Southern California experienced unexpectedly strong Santa Ana winds, resulting in devastating wildfires that burned over 40,000 acres in Los Angeles County. Photographer Mario Tama, feeling an ominous dread, documented the unfolding disaster and its aftermath. Unlike typical photojournalism, he captured the entire story—from destruction to recovery, emphasizing the community's resilience and the environment's recovery. These images serve as a stark reminder of the persistent reality of climate change and the lasting impact of natural disasters beyond short-term news cycles.
Mario Tama, a Getty Images photographer, felt an ominous feeling as the Santa Ana winds brought high risks for wildfires, which ultimately led to catastrophic blazes.
The early January wildfires that swept through Los Angeles County burned over 40,000 acres and destroyed tens of thousands of homes and businesses.
Tama documented not just the devastation of the fires but the entire recovery process, capturing how the community rebuilt and how nature began to heal.
His work reflects the drawn-out struggle of communities affected by climate change, emphasizing the continuous impact of disasters beyond fleeting media attention.
Read at Fast Company
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