Another wildfire has ignited in the Hollywood Hills, forcing fresh evacuations as the death toll continues to climb. Five people have now died from the raging wildfires in Los Angeles County, authorities confirmed. Multiple blazes are still spreading, and tens of thousands of residents remain under evacuation orders.
Fire in Hollywood Hills spreads rapidly
On Wednesday evening, a fast-moving fire broke out in the Hollywood Hills, quickly engulfing the area. By 8:11 p.m. PST, the fire—dubbed the Sunset Fire—had consumed over 50 acres, prompting mandatory evacuations across the area. The fire grew quickly, becoming one of the latest in a series of devastating wildfires across the region.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) immediately launched firefighting efforts, with several helicopters and tankers deployed to fight the flames. Aerial operations were temporarily impacted by strong winds but resumed as the situation worsened.
Evacuation orders expand as blaze grows
By 8:30 p.m. PST, a mandatory evacuation order was issued for areas between the 101 Freeway and Hollywood Boulevard. Residents in the affected areas were urged to leave immediately. Meanwhile, an evacuation warning was also issued for parts of Sunset Boulevard and other nearby areas.
To further assist the evacuation process, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) was deployed to control traffic. Police officers worked alongside the LAFD to help clear roads and ensure emergency responders had full access to the affected neighborhoods.
Power outages and water contamination in evacuated areas
As of Wednesday afternoon, nearly 1 million residents in Los Angeles County were without power, reported PowerOutage.us. Power outages disrupted daily life, making it even more difficult for residents to evacuate.
In addition to the power outages, some areas under evacuation orders faced water contamination. The City of Pasadena issued a warning at 11:00 p.m. PST about unsafe tap water in parts of the area due to the Eaton Fire. Officials advised residents not to drink the water and to rely on bottled water instead.
Firefighting efforts and challenges
Despite the growing number of fires, firefighters are battling to contain the flames. By 9:30 p.m. PST, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department reported that the most intense fire activity in the Hollywood Hills was located on the southwestern side of the fire. Fire crews are working hard to hold the perimeter in place on the eastern side.
Cal Fire’s latest update showed progress in controlling the Hurst Fire, although it continued to rage over 855 acres. As of 9:40 p.m. PST, 10% of the fire had been contained, but much work remains to be done.
State of emergency declared
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, warning of extreme fire risk due to dangerous wind conditions. Winds have reached speeds of up to 55 mph in some areas, fueling the spread of flames. The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning, urging residents to stay alert as high temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity persist.
More evacuations and fire updates
The Palisades Fire, one of the largest blazes, has already scorched over 15,000 acres and forced thousands to flee their homes. The fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood continues to spread, threatening more property and lives.
In Altadena, the Eaton Fire grew to a staggering 10,600 acres by Wednesday morning, with no containment in sight. Authorities confirmed that at least two fatalities had occurred in the fire.
Other fires also continue to blaze across the county, including the Woodley Fire in Sepulveda Basin, which grew to 30 acres before being brought under control. The Hurst Fire in Sylmar and the Eaton Fire in Pasadena are still burning, adding to the intense wildfire situation in the region.
As firefighters continue to battle the flames, residents in Los Angeles County are urged to stay vigilant and follow evacuation orders. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and additional firefighting resources are expected to be deployed as the fires continue to spread.
The situation remains fluid, with the fires threatening even more areas as the wind and dry conditions persist. If you are in an affected area, heed evacuation orders immediately. Stay tuned for updates and take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family.
