LAX Leader

Dr. Matt Hershcovitch of SoCal Breathe Free said that it has rained in Los Angeles, but wildfire smoke, especially from burning lithium-ion batteries and EVs, is "highly toxic" and poses serious health risks. He made his statement in a January 28 post on Instagram.

"Good news, it finally rained here in Los Angeles," said Matt D. Hershcovitch, MD, Doctor, according to Instagram. "It's [smoke exposure, particularly from lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles] really bad for your nose, lungs, skin, and airways. If you have been affected by the wildfires and see a smoldering electric vehicle, be very cautious about gas and vapor exposure. It is highly toxic not just to your eyes and airways but also to your skin."

Hershcovitch explained that smoke from smoldering lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicle fires can produce "hydrogen fluoride gas," which is "corrosive" and "irritating." This gas may lead to airway damage, respiratory failure, and electrolyte imbalances that could cause "heart arrhythmia and death." He further said that even "low-dose exposure" can have harmful effects and advised caution, especially for those near wildfire-affected areas.

Socalbreathefree's post | X

According to the Los Angeles Times, atmospheric river storms are expected to bring rain to Los Angeles County, aiding vegetation impacted by dry conditions. However, concerns remain about debris flows in fire-scarred areas, leading to road closures, including parts of Pacific Coast Highway. The storms originate from the "Pineapple Express" and are expected to bring moderate rainfall, particularly in mountain and burn areas. Despite some rain, Southern California remains well below average rainfall levels, with drier conditions anticipated later in February.

Hershcovitch is a double board-certified ENT (ear, nose, throat) specialist and facial plastic surgeon focusing on sinus conditions and reconstructive procedures. He earned a nuclear engineering degree from MIT, completed medical training at the State University of New York, pursued a residency in head and neck surgery at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, followed by a fellowship at Stanford University. Recognized as a Top Doctor by Los Angeles Magazine in 2024, he focuses on minimally invasive treatments for sinus disorders.

SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers provides ENT care in Burbank and San Diego, California. The center specializes in treating sinus and allergy conditions such as ear infections, nasal obstructions, sleep apnea, and swallowing issues. Focused on patient-centered care, the team creates customized treatment plans to address individual health needs.