Potential Impact of Wildfires on NFC Wild Card Game in Los Angeles
Wildfires across several areas in Los Angeles have raised concerns about their impact on the upcoming NFC Wild Card Game featuring the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings, scheduled for Monday night. According to a report from Moneyline, the NFL is actively monitoring the evolving situation given that the game is set to take place at SoFi Stadium, the home venue for the Rams.
As of Wednesday, three significant wildfires were reported to be raging in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, stretching from the Pacific Coast inland toward Pasadena. These wildfires have led to evacuation orders affecting at least 70,000 residents, with officials indicating that this number is in flux due to the ongoing issuance of new evacuation orders. The NFL issued a statement confirming their commitment to closely follow developments in the area, stating that they will remain in continuous communication with both teams and the NFL Players Association.
The Rams organization is also paying close attention to the situation. Although the team had a scheduled day off from practice on Wednesday, they plan to resume training on Thursday. The Rams' headquarters is situated in Woodland Hills, a mere 13 miles from the Pacific Palisades area, which is currently grappling with the wildfires. Notably, the Santa Monica Mountains serve as a geographical barrier between these locations. As of Wednesday morning, the Rams reported that no players or staff have been adversely affected by the fires. In relation to the broader zeitgeist, Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick shared that his family had to evacuate due to the wildfires. Air quality measurements in the greater area have fluctuated significantly, with values ranging from 150 to over 300, categorizing the air quality as 'very unhealthy' at 150. On Wednesday, the air quality in Inglewood, home to SoFi Stadium, was recorded at 281. Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp expressed solidarity on social media, stating, 'Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the fires,' while extending gratitude toward firefighters and first responders for their efforts in these challenging circumstances.