West LA Times

In the wake of the January wildfires that swept through Southern California, particularly affecting Altadena and Pacific Palisades, UCLA's Samueli School of Engineering has been actively involved in recovery efforts. Faculty members and students are collaborating with federal and local agencies to conduct post-fire field reconnaissance, provide expert insights to media outlets, and engage in research aimed at mitigating future wildfire impacts.

Associate Professor Idil Akin is leading research on slope stability and soil conditions in areas affected by wildfires. Her focus is on understanding the risk of debris flows and landslides that can threaten homes and infrastructure. "Wildfires result in loss of vegetation, loss of cohesion and changes in soil composition that leave the bare soil surface prone to raindrop impacts and increased erosion," Akin explained.

Several faculty members from UCLA Samueli participated in field data reconnaissance immediately after the fires. Professors Sriram Narasimhan and Ertugrul Taciroglu completed extensive terrestrial mapping using vehicle-mounted cameras and lidar systems to assess critical infrastructure damage. They are working with Los Angeles city officials to monitor repair processes over time.

Professor Timu Gallien conducted aerial imaging flights over affected areas to collect data before rain arrived. This information will help predict debris flows and landslides while improving modeling for future events. Professor Scott Brandenberg coordinated data collection as part of NSF-funded programs designed for quick response following extreme events.

Associate Professor Sanjay Mohanty is examining wildfire impacts on soil and water quality. His research suggests pollutants are mainly trapped within the topsoil layer, which can be removed to reduce contamination risks. Mohanty is also involved in a civic initiative funded by the R&S Kayne Foundation to expedite recovery efforts for homeowners and businesses.

In collaboration with Heal the Bay, Professor Jennifer Jay is investigating post-fire water quality in Santa Monica Bay. Initial tests revealed higher levels of metals like lead, copper, and zinc following rainstorms. Elevated bacteria levels near storm drains have also been observed.

Professor Jiaqi Ma is optimizing debris removal strategies with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers using a digital twin model of Los Angeles created by his lab. The aim is to enhance safety during cleanup operations while minimizing traffic disruptions.

Assistant Professor Yuzhang Li highlighted risks associated with lithium-ion batteries from electric vehicles damaged by fire, noting their potential for overheating or exploding if exposed to excessive heat.

Mechanical engineering professor Pirouz Kavehpour collaborated with high school student Ryan Honary on an AI-powered early wildfire detection system authorized for field deployment by Orange County Fire Authority.

Electrical engineering professor Lara Dolecek volunteered math lessons for displaced students whose schools were affected by fires, providing continuity amid disruption.

UCLA’s Garrick Institute is developing WiSE, a software platform for managing wildfire evacuations by integrating fire dynamics with human behavior models.

Looking forward, UCLA Samueli researchers advocate for policies prioritizing long-term resilience against wildfires through investment in stabilization measures, comprehensive water management strategies, and technological innovations like AI detection systems.