Thousands of residents have been forced to flee their homes as wildfires rage across Los Angeles County, fuelled by powerful Santa Ana winds.
The Palisades Fire erupted on Tuesday afternoon, triggering mandatory evacuations for tens of thousands of people and causing the closure of major highways. Hours later, the Eaton Fire broke out in the Pasadena foothills, adding to the growing crisis.
By early Wednesday, three major wildfires were burning across Los Angeles County, including blazes in the Pacific Palisades, Sylmar, and Pasadena areas. Officials confirmed that the fires remain zero percent contained.
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency late Tuesday, warning that the peak of the dangerous winds—with gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour—was expected between 10 p.m. Tuesday and 5 a.m. Wednesday.
More than 30,000 residents are currently under evacuation orders, with over 200,000 people experiencing power outages across the county as utility companies preemptively cut service to prevent further fire ignitions.
The Santa Ana winds, notorious for spreading wildfires rapidly, have worsened conditions, making containment efforts extremely difficult. Wind gusts were recorded at 100 mph near La Cañada Flintridge, 99 mph near Altadena, and 98 mph at Saddle Peak, where the Palisades Fire is burning fiercely.
Two people have so far been reported dead.
In a Wednesday morning press conference, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed the arrest of two individuals for looting homes that had been evacuated due to the fires. Sheriff Luna issued a stern warning to potential looters, stating, “If you are thinking about coming into any of these areas to steal from our residents, you will be caught, arrested, and prosecuted.”
Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief Jim McDonnell echoed Luna’s remarks, emphasising that law enforcement is prepared to respond decisively. “Our officers are out in full force, and anyone attempting to exploit this crisis will face the strongest consequences possible,” McDonnell said.
First responders are facing treacherous conditions as they battle the infernos. LAPD Chief McDonnell described the scene overnight as “like something I have never seen before.” He noted that some firefighters and officers had to temporarily take cover in their vehicles due to the intense heat and flying embers driven by winds exceeding 75 mph.
Despite these challenges, emergency crews have remained on the front lines, working tirelessly to protect homes and prevent further spread of the fires.
Officials continue to urge residents to heed evacuation orders and stay away from affected areas, which are currently restricted to emergency personnel and residents returning for essential items. Authorities have warned that worsening conditions could prompt additional evacuations.
As Los Angeles County grapples with the devastation, officials have called for calm and unity, urging everyone to prioritise safety during what is shaping up to be one of the most destructive wildfire events in recent history.
Residents are advised to monitor local alerts, prepare emergency kits, and have evacuation plans in place as firefighters and emergency teams work around the clock to bring the situation under control.
Pacific Palisades has been WIPED OFF the map. pic.twitter.com/Yuoa4VYSuW
— Stew Peters (@realstewpeters) January 8, 2025
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 8, 2025
May have had a “little DEW” help.
Positively and Absolutely….!