Wildfires in Los Angeles impact NFL playoff game at SoFi Stadium

Why it matters: The wildfires in the Los Angeles metropolitan area are not only causing thousands to evacuate but also affecting the scheduled Monday night wild-card playoff game between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams.

What's new: The NFL is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with both clubs and the NFLPA to ensure the safety of players, staff, and fans.

Yes, but: As of now, no players or staff from the Rams have been directly impacted by the fires, and the team is keeping a close eye on the situation.

What to watch: The air quality index in the area has reached hazardous levels, with smoke and ash blanketing the region. The Los Angeles Chargers have already altered their practice schedule due to poor air quality.

What's next: The NFL will continue to assess the situation and make necessary adjustments to ensure the game can be safely played.

The bottom line: Climate change has led to an extended wildfire season in California, with rising temperatures and decreased rainfall contributing to the early start and late end of these natural disasters.

By the numbers: In 2021, there were 10 wildfires reported in the area, and even though January wildfires are not unprecedented, they highlight the increasing severity and frequency of such incidents.

NFL statement: The league acknowledges the gravity of the situation and remains committed to keeping all parties involved informed and safe during this challenging time.

Los Angeles Chargers team official: The air quality index in the region has varied from 150 to well above 300, indicating hazardous conditions for outdoor activities.

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone: Beyond the immediate dangers of the fires, numerous structures have been threatened, and there have been casualties as a result.

CalFire: The state fire agency reports that wildfires have become more frequent, with one recorded in 2022 and ten in 2021 alone.

Our thought bubble: The safety and well-being of everyone involved should take precedence over the game itself, and necessary precautions must be taken to ensure a secure environment.

Wildfires in Los Angeles impact NFL playoff game at SoFi Stadium

Why it matters: The wildfires in the Los Angeles metropolitan area are not only causing thousands to evacuate but also affecting the scheduled Monday night wild-card playoff game between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams.

What's new: The NFL is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with both clubs and the NFLPA to ensure the safety of players, staff, and fans.

Yes, but: As of now, no players or staff from the Rams have been directly impacted by the fires, and the team is keeping a close eye on the situation.

What to watch: The air quality index in the area has reached hazardous levels, with smoke and ash blanketing the region. The Los Angeles Chargers have already altered their practice schedule due to poor air quality.

What's next: The NFL will continue to assess the situation and make necessary adjustments to ensure the game can be safely played.

The bottom line: Climate change has led to an extended wildfire season in California, with rising temperatures and decreased rainfall contributing to the early start and late end of these natural disasters.

By the numbers: In 2021, there were 10 wildfires reported in the area, and even though January wildfires are not unprecedented, they highlight the increasing severity and frequency of such incidents.

NFL statement: The league acknowledges the gravity of the situation and remains committed to keeping all parties involved informed and safe during this challenging time.

Los Angeles Chargers team official: The air quality index in the region has varied from 150 to well above 300, indicating hazardous conditions for outdoor activities.

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone: Beyond the immediate dangers of the fires, numerous structures have been threatened, and there have been casualties as a result.

CalFire: The state fire agency reports that wildfires have become more frequent, with one recorded in 2022 and ten in 2021 alone.

Our thought bubble: The safety and well-being of everyone involved should take precedence over the game itself, and necessary precautions must be taken to ensure a secure environment.