Nuclear Site At Risk in Cali “Wildfires”

stock here: the timing of these “Wildfires” coincidental with Trump coming in, is DULY NOTED

a-Eye

California’s history with wildfires has, at times, intersected with sites associated with nuclear research and contamination. Notably:

Santa Susana Field Laboratory (SSFL):

Background: Located approximately 30 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles, SSFL was a former rocket engine test site and nuclear research facility. In 1959, it experienced a partial nuclear meltdown, leading to contamination concerns.
Wikipedia

2018 Woolsey Fire: The Woolsey Fire, which began on November 8, 2018, burned about 80% of the SSFL site. This raised concerns about the potential spread of radioactive contamination. However, subsequent studies and reports, including those by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), indicated that the fire did not cause contaminants to be released from the site into neighboring communities. The DTSC's final report in 2020 stated that the risk from smoke exposure during the fire was not higher than what is normally associated with wildfires.
Wikipedia

Diablo Canyon Power Plant:

Background: Diablo Canyon, located near San Luis Obispo, is California's last operating nuclear power plant. It has been a significant source of the state's nuclear energy.
CalMatters

Wildfire Impact: There have been no significant reports of wildfires directly affecting the Diablo Canyon facility. The plant is situated in a coastal area, which generally has a lower risk of wildfires compared to inland regions.

Nuclear Medicine Production Sites:

Information about specific nuclear medicine production facilities in California and their exposure to wildfires is limited. However, it's important to note that many medical isotopes used in nuclear medicine are produced outside of California and even the United States.

General Considerations:

Climate Change and Increased Risks: As climate change intensifies, the frequency and severity of wildfires are expected to increase. This escalation poses heightened risks to sites with radioactive materials, necessitating robust safety measures and emergency preparedness plans to prevent potential contamination.
AP News

Safety Measures: Facilities handling radioactive materials typically implement stringent safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with natural disasters, including wildfires. These measures are designed to protect both the environment and public health.

In summary, while certain sites in California with historical nuclear activities have been affected by wildfires, there have been no significant incidents leading to widespread radioactive contamination as a result of these fires. Ongoing vigilance and preparedness remain crucial to ensure safety in the face of increasing wildfire threats.