California: A Decade in the Middle of the Inferno

Since 2015, Josh Edelson has been documenting California’s wildfires for AFP. From Paradise to Los Angeles, his images capture a state in crisis, ravaged by fires that come earlier, burn more intensely, and spread faster each year. His work looks lucidly and compassionately at a decade of climate emergency.

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A firefighter battles flames approaching homes during the “Creek Fire” in Madera County. September 7, 2020.

In Altadena, Los Angeles County, burnt-out cars continue to smolder. The “Eaton Fire” destroyed more than 1,000 buildings and forced thousands to evacuate. January 8, 2025.

Goats near a house as the “Thompson Fire” advances in Oroville. July 2, 2024.

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A firefighter battles flames approaching homes during the “Creek Fire” in Madera County. September 7, 2020.

In Altadena, Los Angeles County, burnt-out cars continue to smolder. The “Eaton Fire” destroyed more than 1,000 buildings and forced thousands to evacuate. January 8, 2025.

Goats near a house as the “Thompson Fire” advances in Oroville. July 2, 2024.

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