More than a million acres have burned this summer, including wild areas like Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The fires are devastating to people who’ve lost family members and property, but the burns could have long-term ecological benefits.

Story by: Ezra David Romero.

(Photo: Flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires burning in unincorporated Napa County, Calif., on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2020 - AP Photo/Noah Berger)

Scientists are trying to find out whether children’s lungs and immune systems are negatively affected by the chemicals in wildfire smoke.

Story by Sammy Caiola.

With demand for mental health services at a high due to COVID-19, California clinicians and nonprofit staff are finding remote ways to try to prevent suicides, especially among teens, veterans, and other high-risk groups.

Story by Sammy Caiola.