Los Angeles fires: death toll estimated at 440

A study led by Andrew Stokes, a demographer at Boston University, estimates that the major wildfires that swept through Los Angeles between 7 and 31 January 2025 may have claimed around 440 lives. The most likely estimate ranges between 130 and 745 fatalities, far exceeding the initial official toll of 30 deaths.

Researchers attribute this excess mortality not only to direct fire-related deaths but also to indirect causes. These include the exacerbation of respiratory and cardiovascular conditions due to smoke inhalation, disruptions to healthcare services, and the mental health impact on affected communities.