Devastating Wildfire in Los Angeles, California: 11.6 Square Kilometers Affected, 500,000 People Cut Off from Communication

Devastating Wildfire in Los Angeles, California: 11.6 Square Kilometers Affected, 500,000 People Cut Off from Communication

Los Angeles, January 9, 2025 – Intense wildfires have taken a devastating toll in the Los Angeles area of California. Fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds, the fire has spread rapidly, burning down numerous homes and structures. The area is shrouded in thick smoke and flames, causing thousands of residents to flee their homes for safety.

Current situation:

Palisades Fire:

• 4.5 square miles (11.6 square kilometers) have been burned.
• 0% containment.
• 80,000 residents have been forcibly relocated.

Eaton Fire:

• Approximately 1.6 square miles (4 square kilometers) have been burned.
• Active evacuation process is underway.
• Residents have been evacuated from nearly 100 senior shelters.

Hearst Fire:

• Around 500 acres (202 hectares) have been burned in the San Fernando Valley. Additionally, fires continue in Malibu and Altadena, causing more people to seek shelter in safer areas. The rapid spread of the fire is attributed to the intense Santa Ana winds, and only a limited number of firefighters are fighting to control the situation.

Evacuation Centers:

• Santa Monica High School (601 Pico Blvd)
• Westwood Recreation Center (1350 Sepulveda Blvd)

Animal Assistance:

• Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control ((562) 728-4882)
• Pierce College Equestrian Center (6201 Winnetka Ave, Woodland Hills)

Power Outages:

• Over 300,000 customers are without power. If the weather worsens, over 500,000 customers could face power outages and be cut off from communication.

Santa Anita Park:

• The Santa Anita Park in Arcadia has canceled training and is monitoring air quality. However, as it is located outside the voluntary evacuation zone, it is not directly in danger.