Multiple large wildfires in Los Angeles caused widespread water shortages, leading to dry fire hydrants hindering firefighting efforts. Experts attribute this to a combination of factors, including high water demand exceeding system capacity, power outages impacting water pumping, and the aging infrastructure of the city's water system. Criticism of California's environmental policies and leadership emerged, but officials emphasized the complexity of the situation and the need for improved infrastructure to handle future extreme events. An independent investigation has been launched to address the issue and prevent similar occurrences.