On Monday night, the Los Angeles Rams will play the Minnesota Vikings in Los Angeles in the NFL playoffs' Wild Card round. Massive wildfires in northern Los Angeles, meanwhile, could jeopardize the game's standing.
At least two people have been killed and more than 1,000 houses, businesses, and other structures have been burned by three different wildfires that are raging around Los Angeles County. These flames, which are still uncontrolled, are among the most destructive in the area's recent history.
The fires have been spreading quickly over northern Los Angeles, propelled by the strong Santa Ana winds. The NFL is obviously quite concerned about the situation as the playoff game draws near, even if the downtown Los Angeles area has not been directly impacted.
The NFL has chosen to go with the game as planned for the time being, but it seems to be keeping a careful eye on the issue.
In an email to Pro Football Talk, NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy stated, "The NFL continues to closely monitor developments in the area and will remain in contact with both clubs and the NFLPA."
The stadium and gamegoers may not be immediately threatened by the fires, but players and other participants may experience severe air quality problems.
Since the victor advances to the divisional round of the playoffs the following weekend, a postponement or delay of the game seems improbable. But if it becomes essential, the NFL may think about moving the game.
Since Phoenix and Las Vegas are the closest feasible possibilities, they might be used as alternative locations.
Although things are still subject to change, it looks like the game will go on as planned for the time being.