LOS ANGELES — Devastating wildfires swept through the Los Angeles region, resulting in at least five fatalities and the destruction of thousands of buildings, according to official reports. The rapidly advancing flames engulfed homes and businesses, forcing residents to evacuate from smoke-filled canyons and scenic neighborhoods, many of which are favored by celebrities.
The wildfires, which initiated earlier in the week, were exacerbated by the intense Santa Ana winds, gusting over 70 mph (112 kph). Although the winds calmed somewhat by Thursday, the National Weather Service indicated that stronger gusts might return, potentially intensifying the fire spread. A new set of strong winds could develop again by Tuesday.
While the precise number of fatalities remains uncertain, authorities anticipate that the death toll might increase as search and recovery operations progress. Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the state has mobilized more than 1,400 firefighting personnel to combat the blazes, with assistance from firefighting teams from Oregon, Washington, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona.
AccuWeather has raised its assessment of economic losses and damage related to the wildfires, estimating totals between $135 billion and $150 billion. However, no official damage reports have been released by government sources as of yet.
Key details about the wildfires indicate that the Palisades Fire has become the most catastrophic fire on record in Los Angeles. The fire has severely impacted the luxurious Pacific Palisades neighborhood, damaging or obliterating thousands of structures. This level of destruction exceeds that of the Sayre Fire in 2008, which resulted in 604 losses in nearby Sylmar, according to data from the Wildfire Alliance, a collaboration between the city fire department and MySafe:LA.
Approximately 27 square miles (nearly 70 square kilometers) have burned in Pacific Palisades, a location known for its celebrity residences and famously captured in the Beach Boys’ song “Surfin’ USA.” This devastating fire impacted Palisades Charter High School, recognized in several films, including the 1976 horror classic “Carrie” and the television show “Teen Wolf.” Notably, actor Billy Crystal and his wife suffered the loss of their home of 45 years.
Other nearby fires are also wreaking havoc, particularly the Eaton Fire north of Pasadena, which has burned over 4,000 buildings, significant residential areas, as well as five school campuses in Altadena, covering more than 16.5 square miles (43 square kilometers). Emergency evacuations also took place at a senior center where staff transported residents to safety.
Evacuation orders were also issued for a new fire named the Kenneth Fire, igniting near West Hills, a densely populated neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley, located approximately 11 miles (18 kilometers) from Pacific Palisades. Additionally, a smaller fire known as the Hurst Fire led to evacuations in Sylmar and has spread across 1 square mile (2.6 square kilometers). The Sunset Fire also broke out on Wednesday near notable landmarks, but firefighters managed to control it and lift evacuation orders soon after.
In total, these wildfires have consumed an estimated area of about 45 square miles (117 square kilometers), an expanse comparable to the size of San Francisco.
President Joe Biden, during a briefing on Thursday, announced federal resources to aid California, stating these wildfires are the worst the region has ever experienced. The newly allocated funding will cover costs associated with hazardous material removal, temporary shelters, first responder compensations, and other protective measures for 180 days.
As of Thursday, nearly 180,000 residents were under evacuation orders due to the imminent threat of fire. Eras of fear loomed over affluent neighborhoods such as Calabasas and Santa Monica, where numerous celebrities now find themselves fleeing. Notably, Hollywood figures like Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, and James Woods have been affected, with Moore confirming the loss of her Altadena residence.
The air quality across Southern California has severely deteriorated due to smoke and ash, with advisories impacting around 17 million residents. The worst air quality index measurements reached unhealthy levels, particularly around East Los Angeles, where readings hit 173, while anything over 50 is considered unhealthy.
Dr. Puneet Gupta from the Los Angeles County Fire Department highlighted that wildfire smoke can significantly aggravate preexisting health issues like asthma and can even lead to severe heart conditions. It also poses additional risks as the burning of buildings releases harmful substances like cyanide and carbon dioxide.
In light of the ongoing crisis, various events have been canceled or postponed. The Critics Choice Awards, originally scheduled to take place in Santa Monica, have been pushed to January 26. The Oscars extended their voting timeframe and delayed the upcoming nominations announcement. Movie premieres at film studios have also been called off, while Disneyland remains operational, unlike Universal Studios Hollywood, which temporarily closed in response to the fires. Furthermore, all schools within the Los Angeles Unified School District observed closures.
In another development, thousands in Southern California faced power and water disruptions, with over 415,000 customers left without electricity. This unprecedented level of destruction has severely impacted essential infrastructure, including sewer and water systems across the areas affected by the fires.
Officials are also taking steps to curtail looting. At least 20 arrests have been made, with authorities emphasizing that individuals exploiting the crisis will face legal action. A curfew near the primary fire zones may be initiated to ensure community safety, and the National Guard is expected to provide support in affected regions.
