As we keep an eye on dangerous California winds and watch as firefighters battle the blaze, many have wondered— can ocean water be used to help battle the blaze?
The idea of using ocean water to combat wildfires has sparked curiosity, especially as wildfires grow more intense and frequent across the globe.
The short answer is yes. But it’s not quite that simple as it comes with consequences.
While it may seem like a straightforward solution, using saltwater to fight fires comes with a host of challenges.
One major concern is that saltwater is highly corrosive.
While saltwater can technically be used to extinguish wildfires, freshwater is the preferred option for several important reasons.
Saltwater can wreck equipment and vegetation pretty quickly and it’s not as simple, safe, or environmentally friendly.
According to CBS News, Super Scoopers—$25 million water-bombing aircrafts—can haul 14,000 pounds of water. Their airtankers help transport water to fight the fires in California.
But scooping up water from the ocean can cause damage due to the ocean’s salinity causing corrosion.
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It can damage the pumps, pipes, and other parts of firefighting equipment unless these are flushed thoroughly after each use. And during an active wildfire, there often isn’t time for such maintenance.
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The need for rapid and repeated use of equipment makes saltwater an impractical choice in many cases.
Saltwater also poses significant risks to the environment.
When seawater comes into contact with soil, it raises the salinity levels, which can lead to long-term damage to ecosystems.
Soil can take years to get back to normal once that salt corrodes it.
Increased salinity makes it harder for plants to absorb water and nutrients, effectively stunting their growth and threatening the survival of vegetation in affected areas.
Studies show that salt left behind from seawater can tamper with soil quality and hinder plant growth for extended periods. Salt can make soil toxic and lessen the ability for seeds to grow where they need to.
While the potential to use ocean water in firefighting may seem like a viable way to tap into an abundant resource, the reality is more complex.
The environmental and logistical challenges mean that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, scientists and firefighting experts are exploring more sustainable approaches, such as recycled wastewater and innovative technologies, to help tackle the growing threat of wildfires.
For now, saltwater remains a last resort, and its use requires careful consideration of both the immediate need to extinguish fires and the long-term impact on the surrounding environment.