A recent study has revealed a concerning trend: deaths caused by wildfire smoke in the U.S. could surge to 70,000 per year by 2050 if current warming trends persist. The study indicates that wildfire smoke is currently responsible for approximately 40,000 deaths annually in the United States. The primary culprit is PM2.5 particles, which are released from burning forests and structures, significantly elevating the risks of respiratory and heart-related illnesses, ultimately leading to increased mortality rates.