According to the reports on Thursday (9 January), wildfires have wreaked havoc across Los Angeles County, leaving five people dead and destroying more than 2,000 structures, including homes, businesses, and landmarks. The fires, fueled by gusts of up to 100 mph, have forced over 100,000 residents to evacuate. Red flag warnings remain in effect for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, signaling ongoing extreme fire danger. The Eaton fire, one of the most destructive, has claimed five lives and burned more than 10,000 acres in Altadena and Pasadena.
The Palisades fire has charred over 15,800 acres, stretching from Pacific Palisades to Malibu and destroying numerous multimillion-dollar homes along the Pacific Coast Highway. Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain the flames, but resources are stretched thin due to simultaneous blazes. The Sunset fire, which erupted in the Hollywood Hills, has prompted evacuations in the Runyon Canyon area and threatens Hollywood Boulevard. In Sylmar, the Hurst fire has scorched 700 acres, adding to the devastation.
Local authorities have taken additional measures to ensure public safety, including the implementation of a curfew in evacuated neighborhoods in Santa Monica. This decision aims to protect empty homes and businesses from potential looting during the crisis. Fire Chief Anthony Marrone emphasized the critical importance of evacuation orders, noting significant injuries to residents and first responders in areas like the Palisades fire where some chose to remain behind.
Despite the relentless efforts of firefighters, the situation remains dire. Whipping winds and dry conditions have allowed the fires to spread rapidly, overwhelming emergency crews and endangering more communities. Officials continue to urge residents to evacuate when ordered, as conditions could worsen with little warning. The ongoing disaster has become one of the most destructive firestorms in the history of Los Angeles County.
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