Millions of residents in Southern California braced themselves as hazardous fire weather returned on Wednesday, coinciding with two significant wildfires that have claimed at least 25 lives and devastated thousands of homes. Gusty winds, reaching speeds of up to 35 mph (56 kph) along the coasts and valleys and soaring to 55 mph (88 kph) in mountainous areas, began to pick up before dawn, according to meteorologist Todd Hall from the National Weather Service.
In a related development, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced that it is closely monitoring how the wildfires are impacting investors and businesses. The agency is contemplating extending filing deadlines and relaxing regulatory requirements for companies adversely affected by the wildfires. Additionally, the SEC cautioned investors to stay alert for potential fraud schemes related to wildfire investments and recommended verifying the credentials of investment promoters via their online portal, Investor.gov. The agency vowed to rigorously pursue those attempting to exploit wildfire victims.
During a U.S. Senate confirmation hearing on Wednesday for Chris Wright, a fossil fuel executive nominated for energy secretary, protests erupted as demonstrators shouted slogans highlighting the wildfires’ devastation. Amidst the chaos, several senators questioned Wright about his stance on climate change. He confirmed its reality and admitted that fossil fuel consumption contributes to the problem.
In education matters, classes have resumed for students from two elementary schools that were destroyed in the Palisades Fire, as they attended other campuses temporarily. About 400 students from Palisades Charter Elementary School are now attending Brentwood Science Magnet located approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) away, while over 300 students from Marquez Elementary School are learning at Nora Sterry Elementary School, situated about 10 miles (16 kilometers) away. Meanwhile, seven other schools within the Los Angeles Unified School District that were closed due to the fire are also relocating. In nearby Pasadena Unified School District, many students remain at home as five schools were heavily affected by the recent fires.
Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley addressed the criticism regarding wildfire response efforts, stating that her department acted promptly to mobilize resources to the areas most in need. She emphasized that her team followed existing protocols to call in off-duty firefighters and send additional firefighting vehicles to assist. Fire departments from surrounding areas also quickly responded to requests for help.
In the wake of the fires, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has received over 53,000 applications for assistance and has distributed $12 million for essential needs like food and lodging to those impacted by the wildfires. This federal aid aims to fulfill needs often unmet by insurance policies. In addition to FEMA aid, the Small Business Administration is offering low-interest loans to assist individuals and businesses in their recovery efforts. A coalition of over 70 organizations is also contributing support to wildfire survivors.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass acknowledged the substantial losses incurred due to the wildfires, recognizing that many memories and experiences are now irrevocably lost. To expedite recovery efforts, Mayor Bass issued an executive order aimed at streamlining rebuilding processes by reducing bureaucratic barriers.
Los Angeles County’s District Attorney Nathan Hochman has begun taking action against individuals arrested in connection with the fires, promising significant consequences for those who violate the law. Hochman’s office is also looking into reports of price gouging, particularly egregious during times of crisis when victims are in desperate need of help.
Additionally, more arrests have been made in connection with arson cases, with one suspect reportedly confessing to starting a fire simply for the enjoyment of the scent of burning leaves. While authorities continue to make progress in managing the situation, an estimated 90,400 residents could face evacuation orders if strong winds end up spreading the current fires or igniting new ones.
L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna noted that a large part of the Eaton Fire zone has been searched, although dozens of individuals are still reported missing. While the recent death toll remains steady at 21, the number of missing person cases continues to fluctuate. As of Wednesday, approximately 82,400 people are still under evacuation orders as the situation develops.
Firefighters are also encountering challenges due to rapidly changing wind conditions, with forecasts predicting another strong wind day. A new brush fire, which threatened homes, was quickly extinguished, demonstrating the ongoing threat to the area.
In a disturbing twist, the extreme fire conditions also raise the risk of fire tornadoes—an uncommon but severe occurrence where wildfires create their own weather patterns. With high winds and dry conditions present, the National Weather Service highlighted the heightened risk for explosive fire growth.
Currently, nearly 100,000 customers are facing power outages as utility companies shut down electrical service to reduce the fire risk. The National Weather Service indicates that while winds may not be as severe as last week, conditions remain precarious. However, relief may arrive as forecasts suggest improved weather conditions over the weekend that could allow firefighters to resume their crucial work more effectively.
Vice President Kamala Harris has criticized insurance companies for altering coverage practices amidst wildfire risks, stating that these changes disproportionately affect young and minority homeowners in communities severely hit by the fires. She cited Altadena, a historically significant area for Black families in California, as an example of the losses being experienced due to the ongoing crisis.
Firefighters are expected to encounter challenging conditions with significant terrain variations and uncontrolled fire spread. Todd Hall, the National Weather Service meteorologist, indicated that these challenges encompass both extremely dry fuel sources and elevated wind speeds, making the wildfire situation all the more dire. Nevertheless, crews are bravely continuing their tireless work to combat the flames, with some progress being made in containing various fires.
The cumulative impact of these wildfires across the Los Angeles area has resulted in approximately 63.5 square miles (164 square kilometers) scorched and over 12,000 structures damaged or destroyed. Current containment figures reflect that the Eaton Fire is 45% contained, while the Palisades Fire is at 19% containment and the Hurst Fire is near full containment at 97%. Firefighters are hopeful for significant weather improvements soon, which could provide them with urgently needed assistance in their battle against the blazes.
