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California Wildfires Force Thousands to Flee as Homes Burn Across Los Angeles

  • California Wildfires Force Thousands to Flee as Homes Burn Across Los Angeles
    California Wildfires Force Thousands to Flee as Homes Burn Across Los Angeles
Region:
USA
Category:
Society
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Los Angeles, CA — Multiple wind-driven wildfires erupted in and around Los Angeles on Tuesday, destroying homes, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate, and straining firefighting resources. The fires, fueled by the notorious Santa Ana winds, have left the city and surrounding areas in a state of emergency.

The most devastating blaze, the Palisades Fire, tore through Pacific Palisades, a coastal neighborhood known for its celebrity homes and picturesque landscapes. The fire consumed over 4.5 square miles (11.6 square kilometers), destroying numerous residences and businesses. Evacuation efforts were chaotic, with residents abandoning cars on gridlocked roads to flee on foot, carrying pets and essential belongings. Bulldozers were brought in to clear abandoned vehicles and create access for emergency responders.

“It’s crazy; it’s everywhere,” said Will Adams, a longtime resident of Pacific Palisades, as he watched embers ignite homes. “One home’s safe, the other’s up in flames.”

A second fire, the Eaton Fire, broke out in the inland foothills northeast of Los Angeles near a senior living center, where staff heroically pushed elderly residents in wheelchairs and hospital beds to safety as embers fell around them. Residents were later evacuated by ambulances and buses.

In Sylmar, a third wildfire prompted immediate evacuations in the San Fernando Valley. Officials reported that strong gusts exceeding 60 mph (97 kph) were driving flames into neighborhoods. Some mountain areas experienced winds topping 100 mph (160 kph), severely hampering aerial firefighting efforts.

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency and announced the deployment of 1,400 firefighting personnel. “Emergency officials, firefighters, and first responders are all hands on deck to protect lives,” he said.

The fires’ intensity also disrupted daily life across Southern California. President Joe Biden canceled plans to travel to Riverside County and remained in Los Angeles, where he was briefed on the unfolding crisis. Film studios postponed premieres, schools relocated students, and power outages affected nearly 167,000 residents across Los Angeles County.

As of early Wednesday, none of the fires were contained. Fire officials warned that conditions would worsen overnight, with the Santa Ana winds continuing to accelerate. Firefighters worked tirelessly to prevent further destruction, despite limited resources and dangerous conditions.

“By no stretch of the imagination are we out of the woods,” Newsom said, cautioning residents to remain vigilant.

Key Fire Statistics:

Palisades Fire: Burned 4.5 square miles (11.6 square kilometers); 0% containment.

Eaton Fire: Burned 1.6 square miles (4 square kilometers); 0% containment.

Hurst Fire: Burned 500 acres (202 hectares); 0% containment.

The fires highlight California’s ongoing battle with extreme weather and prolonged drought conditions. With little rain since May and strong winds persisting, officials urged residents to prepare for potential evacuations and follow safety guidelines.