As firefighters in California battle more than two dozen active wildfires, a new study reveals that millions of people are living dangerously close to oil and gas wells that are at risk of burning. The study, published in the journal One Earth, found that over 100,000 wells in 19 states in the western U.S. are in areas prone to wildfires, with a large concentration in California.
Nearly 3 million Americans live within reach of these wells, facing threats of explosions, pollution, and infrastructure damage. In California alone, over 87% of the 118,000 oil wells in high fire-risk areas are located, putting 2.6 million residents at risk.
The study warns that the number of wells in fire-prone areas could increase significantly in the coming decades, exacerbating the risks for communities living nearby. Despite efforts to curb new drilling and cap old wells, the U.S. continues to be a top producer of oil and gas, leading to ongoing environmental hazards.
The study also highlights the disproportionate impact on Black, Latino, and Native American communities, who face higher risks due to the uneven distribution of oil wells. Recommendations include prohibiting new drilling near sensitive sites, investing in technology to monitor leaks, and better regulation of the industry to protect public health.
As climate change worsens wildfires and increases the risks for communities living near oil and gas infrastructure, researchers and advocates are calling for immediate action to prevent future disasters. The study’s lead author, David J.X. González, emphasizes the need for stronger protections and measures to mitigate the risks posed by oil wells in wildfire-prone regions.
