Which Way, L.A.?
Wildfires Blazing Through Southland
This week's fires are threatening lives, homes and a major historic site on Mt. Wilson. Plus, Mayor Villraigosa is overhauling his office. On our rebroadcast of today's To the Point, faced with a possible flu epidemic this fall, the US planning for extreme emergencies. If medical facilities are overwhelmed, who gets access first? Who decides? What can be learned from what happened after Katrina just four years ago?
By Warren Olney • • 54m ListenMassive fires are all too common in southern California. We hear what's unusual about this week's blazes. Is Mt. Wilson in danger? Also, can Mayor Villaraigosa invigorate his office by putting his gang czar in charge? On our rebroadcast of Today's To the Point, the US is faced with a possible flu epidemic this fall, and plans are being made for extreme emergencies. If medical facilities are overwhelmed, who gets access first? Who makes that decision? What can be learned from what happened after Katrina just four years ago?
Banner image captured by the Mt. Wilson TowerCam on August 31 at 2:37pm © UCLA Department of Physics and Astronomy
In this episode
3 storiesHurricane Katrina and Medical Choice in Extreme Emergencies
Just four years ago, Hurricane Katrina cut off electricity to New Orleans' Memorial Medical Center. Emergency generators failed. The temperature was 100°, there was no fresh water or sewage, and flooding around a heavily damaged building created major problems for evacuating patients. Doctors were forced to conduct triage.
Read the story28 minWildfires Blazing Through Southland
Fires as large as those blazing tonight in the Southland are usually spread by Santa Ana winds blowing in from the desert. These are a different story. Among the facilities shut down for the past few days is the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in LaCanada-Flintridge.
Read the story13 minShake-up at the Mayor’s Office, Update on Gang Program
One of the most respected staff members at Los Angeles City Hall is Robin Kramer, who’s leaving as Mayor Villaraigosa’s chief of staff. Kramer, whose experience at City Hall dates back more than 20 years, served in the same capacity during Richard Riordan’s first term.
Read the story13 min