THE Los Angeles Countyin California, faces a serious crisis with four forest fires that spread rapidly since Tuesday afternoon (7). Strong winds and dry weather contributed to the intensity of the flames, causing destruction and human losses.
Extensive Deaths and Damage
To date, they have been confirmed two deaths and a significant number of injuries. According to Anthony C. Marrone, County Fire Department, the fire in Pacific Palisades is the most devastating, destroying about thousand structures and consuming more than 2 thousand hectares.
State of emergency declared
Given the severity of the situation, the city of Los Angeles declared a state of emergency on Tuesday. About 100 thousand people They received alerts to evacuate their homes, especially in the areas of Malibu and Santa Monica, directly affected by the Palisades fire.
Other fires in the county
In addition to the palisades, three other large fires plague the county: Hurstnorth of San Fernando; Woodleyto the south; and Eatonin Altadena. Everyone grew quickly, further complicating the work of emergency teams.
Check out an impressive video made by a homeowner in the region:
This is by far the cage video from the Fire in Los Angeles. This Guy is filming Huge Walls of Fire surrounding a house they’re in, and there’s another person and a dog. I have no idea why they didn’t Evacuate or What Happened to Them. Let’s Hope They’re Okay. #Palisadesfire pic.twitter.com/qytsbskvdl
– Sia Kordestani (@siakordestani) January 8, 2025
Smoke alert in the region
A smoke alert was issued to areas ranging from Malibu the Santa Monica and extend to Pasaden. The Palisades Fire Smoke column came to spread for more than 160 kilometers On the coast of the Pacific Ocean, aggravating the quality of the air.
Drastic evacuations and immediate risks
Dramatic scenes were seen in Pasadenwhere a nursing house had to be evacuated in a hurry. Elderly were carried in wheelchairs, covered only by shawls, while the Eaton fire approached dangerously, just one block of the place.
Mobilized National Guard
The governor of California, Gavin Newsommobilized the National guard to support fire fighting. In an official statement, he highlighted the partnership with the California Forest and Fire Protection Department, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Insufficient number of firefighters
More than 1,400 firefighters They are mobilized, but chief Anthony Marrone has admitted that county resources are insufficient to deal with four simultaneous fires of this magnitude. The help of five neighboring and nearby counties was requested.
Wind gusts intensify fires
Winds of up to 170 km/h They have made the work of fire fighting teams difficult, even forcing the landing of aircraft that assisted in operations. According to the National Meteorology Service, these conditions are the most destructive since 2011.
Environmental and health impact
In addition to physical destruction, fires directly affect the health of the population. Low air quality, aggravated by dense smoke, endangers vulnerable groups such as elderly and people with breathing problems.
Solidarity and Community Help
While authorities work to contain the flames, the local community mobilizes to provide support to the homeless. Temporary shelters have been assembled in various regions, and donation campaigns are underway.
EXPECTATION OF CONTROL
Despite continuous efforts, authorities warn that complete fires control may take days, depending on weather conditions. Meanwhile, residents are advised to follow evacuation and safety guidelines.
Summary for those in a hurry
- Los Angeles It has faced four major forest fires since Tuesday (7).
- The largest, in Pacific Palisadesdestroyed thousand structures and burned more than 2 thousand hectares.
- 100 thousand people were evacuated, with two deaths confirmed.
- Smoke affects air quality in areas such as Malibu, Santa Monica and Pasaden.
- Winds of 170 km/h complicate the fight against the flames.
- THE National guard It was mobilized to reinforce emergency operations.