Over 100,000 residents across Los Angeles County have been forced to evacuate as a growing number of wildfires, fueled by fierce winds, continue to spread since Tuesday. The destruction is significant: countless homes have been consumed by flames, beloved local businesses have been destroyed, and the death toll is expected to rise.
The crisis shows no signs of ending soon. While the worst of the Santa Ana winds that had stoked the uncontrollable blazes in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena are now subsiding, the National Weather Service warns that strong winds and critical fire conditions will persist through at least Friday evening.
On Wednesday evening, a new wildfire ignited in the Hollywood Hills, followed shortly after by the Sunset Fire, which led to mandatory evacuation orders.
“This is a dangerous situation, and we urge people to evacuate immediately,” said Margaret Stewart, a public information officer with the Los Angeles Fire Department, during an interview with KCAL News.
As of now, over 150 firefighters are actively battling the Sunset Fire, with helicopters conducting water drops to help contain the flames. However, with winds blowing at speeds of 25 mph, the fire's rapid spread remains a significant concern, prompting officials to urge residents in evacuation zones to leave early.
An evacuation center has been established at the Pan Pacific Recreation Center at 7600 Beverly Blvd.
Here’s what we know about the ongoing fires:
SUNSET FIRE
The Sunset Fire began around 6:04 p.m. on Wednesday, near the 2300 block of Solar Drive in the Hollywood Hills. The blaze quickly spread across 60 acres between Runyon Canyon and Wattles Park. Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for the following areas:
- Laurel Canyon Blvd (east)
- Mulholland Dr (south)
- 101 Freeway (west)
- Hollywood Blvd (north)
Evacuated residents can head to the Pan Pacific Recreation Center at 7600 Beverly Blvd for shelter.
EATON FIRE
A fast-moving brush fire broke out on Tuesday at 6:23 p.m. near Eaton Canyon in Altadena and Pasadena. By Wednesday, five deaths and numerous injuries were confirmed as the fire spread rapidly through the area.
PALISADES FIRE
The Palisades Fire started early Tuesday morning in the Santa Monica Mountains, forcing hundreds of residents to flee, some on foot, as winds pushed the flames dangerously close. California Governor Gavin Newsom reported significant destruction in the area, with several structures already lost. By evening, the extent of the damage appeared catastrophic, with landmarks like the Reel Inn now gone.
HURST FIRE
At around 10 p.m. Tuesday, a fire ignited near Olive View Medical Center in Sylmar and rapidly spread toward the 210 Freeway. The fire expanded to 100 acres, prompting immediate evacuation orders for areas north of the 210 Freeway, from Roxford to the I-5/14 Freeway split. Officials also reported an exploded power line in the vicinity, further fueling concerns of the fire approaching nearby homes.
LIDIA FIRE
The Lidia Fire broke out shortly after 2 p.m. Wednesday off Soledad Canyon Road in the Angeles National Forest. While smaller than other fires, containment remains in the early stages. Authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze. Roads in the area, including Soledad Canyon Road, have been closed, and a Sigalert has been issued in Acton.
WOODLEY FIRE
The Woodley Fire, which started early Wednesday morning near North Woodley Avenue and the Sepulveda Basin, continues to pose a threat. Fire crews are actively working to prevent the flames from crossing Burbank Boulevard, aiming to protect structures in the affected area.
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