As the Los Angeles wildfires continue to devastate the area, the NFL is closely monitoring the situation ahead of its Wild Card Weekend matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings. The league released a statement saying it will remain in contact with both clubs and the NFLPA as the situation develops.
At least 70,000 people have been ordered to evacuate as three major fires burn from the Pacific Coast to Pasadena, with officials saying the number of evacuation orders is fluid. The Rams announced that no players or staff members have been impacted by the fires, but they are monitoring the situation closely.
Rams star receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp posted on social media to show support for their community, with Kupp saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the fires. Thank you to the firefighters, first responders, and everyone else doing their best in unfathomable circumstances.”
The Los Angeles Chargers, who share SoFi Stadium with the Rams, altered their practice schedule on Wednesday to limit players’ time outside. The team heads to Houston to face the Texans on Saturday.
Air quality is a major concern due to the fires, with indexes varying between 150 and 300 depending on location. Inglewood, the home of SoFi Stadium, had an air quality index of 281 on Wednesday.
Weather conditions are not helping firefighters control the flames, with high winds making it difficult to fight the fires with aircraft. The Los Angeles Fire Department has put out a plea for any off-duty firefighters to help, with thousands already working day and night to get the fires under control.
