Author: Amal Bilal, Class of 2028

Wildfires are becoming increasingly prominent and intense in the United States as a result of evolving climate change and human settlements in fire-prone areas. Although the major health impacts of air pollution caused by wildfires are known, there is less research on the direct impact of this pollution on mortality. Michigan State University researchers Zeying Huang and Mark Skidmore sought to uncover how wildfire-induced air pollution, specifically fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), affects mortality caused by respiratory and circulatory system diseases, as well as all-cause mortality.

The researchers conducted causal mediation analysis on county-level panel data to separate the direct effects of wildfires and air pollution. By combining wildfire records, air quality data, meteorological conditions, and health statistics from approximately 3,000 U.S. counties, the team observed both the local and long-distance effects of wildfires. Their analysis indicated that fine particulate pollution from wildfires significantly raises deaths, with 58% of all-cause deaths, 47% of respiratory deaths, and 21% of circulatory deaths caused by PM_2.5. These findings highlight that PM_2.5 is highly related to wildfires and mortality outcomes, revealing that pollution can impact regions far from the areas directly impacted by fire.

However, the study also suggests potential causes of wildfire mortality other than air pollution. The researchers state indirect deadly effects of wildfires, including factors such as psychological stress, heat exposure, disrupted healthcare access, and economic strain. The researchers also emphasize the importance of preparation and planning among populations at risk from fire-prone areas.

Ultimately, the research underscores the growing frequency and severity of wildfires as climate change worsens, as well as the impact of pollution and other factors, such as water pollution, ozone exposure, heat stress, and flooding, on wildfire-related mortality. The researchers encourage incorporating smoke exposure to the public, advancing wildfire suppression efforts and post-fire management strategies, and integrating fire cause information and meteorological patterns into models to support more accurate and actionable risk assessments. In addition, future research calls for analyzing other health outcomes, including mental health challenges, to understand the short-term and long-term risks resulting from climate change. Ultimately, enhancing the general understanding of the health impacts of climate change remains a top priority as weather patterns intensify.

Figure 1. Raging wildfire engulfs a forest, illustrating the threat of smoke and air pollution on public health.

Works Cited:

[1] Huang, Z., & Skidmore, M. (2025). The Impacts of Wildfires and Wildfire-induced Air Pollution on Mortality in the United States. Environmental Challenges, 101339. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envc.2025.101339

[2] Image retrieved from: https://www.pexels.com/photo/forest-on-fire-51951/