Los Angeles Reduced to Rubble by California Wildfires, 25-Mile Area Completely Devastated
Los Angeles, January 10, 2025—The Eaton Fire and other wildfires have turned Los Angeles into a city of rubble. Fueled by California’s powerful Santa Ana winds, the fires have claimed 10 lives and destroyed more than 10,000 homes and structures. However, firefighters are hopeful that a reduction in winds from Friday will provide an opportunity to bring the fires under control.
The fires, which began on Tuesday across a 25-mile expanse north of downtown Los Angeles, have devastated entire blocks of the scenic Pacific Palisades. In Malibu, oceanfront homes have been reduced to ashes, leaving only charred palm fronds behind.
New Fires and Immediate Response
On Thursday afternoon, the Kenneth Fire broke out in the San Fernando Valley, threatening a school serving as a shelter for evacuees from another fire. A swift and aggressive response by firefighters prevented the flames from spreading further.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department reported that a firefighting plane had to be grounded on Thursday after being struck by a civilian drone. No injuries were reported, but flying a drone during firefighting operations is a federal offense.
The Most Destructive Fires in History
The Eaton Fire, which began near Pasadena on Tuesday night, has already destroyed over 5,000 structures, including homes, businesses, and vehicles. The Pacific Palisades fire, the largest burning in the LA area, has destroyed more than 5,300 structures, making it the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history.
Another fire in the Hollywood Hills, which threatened the heart of the entertainment industry, was brought under control with water drops from aircraft, allowing an evacuation order to be lifted on Thursday.
Damaged Structures and Local Response
At least five churches, a synagogue, seven schools, two libraries, and various shops, restaurants, banks, and grocery stores have been destroyed. Local landmarks such as the Will Rogers Western Ranch House and the Topanga Ranch Motel, dating back to the 1920s, have also been reduced to rubble.
Despite the extensive efforts by firefighters, the level of devastation has left residents of Los Angeles reeling from what has become a nightmare scenario.
