Water experts dismissed Trump’s claims that California water policy is to blame for dry hydrants. But Los Angeles is also unprepared for the age of urban wildfires.

Though wildfires have always happened, warming global temperatures are making them more frequent and severe. For instance, scientists calculated last year that our overheating planet has contributed to a 172% increase in areas burned by wildfires in California since the 1970s.

Reports of fire hydrants running dry as crews battled the Palisades Fire has raised questions among residents and fire officials in San Diego County whether it is something that could happen here when the region gets next major wildfire — and what can be done about it.

Why did dozens of fire hydrants go dry as firefighters rushed to combat flames from spreading in the Los Angeles area? National investigative correspondent Patrick Terpstra explains.

Local officials say that was driven by an incredible demand on a municipal water system not designed for fighting fires.

After the water is treated, it is stored in huge water tanks. Then the water eventually makes its way to hundreds of fire hydrants in the community. This one was installed right in front of the church behind me.