A massive wildfire in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, led to the evacuation of over 30,000 residents on Wednesday and now threatens approximately 13,000 buildings as strong Santa Anan winds stoke the flames. The Palisades Fire, the largest of three concurrent wildfires in the region, has already burned nearly 3,000 acres and remains uncontained, prompting both Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency.
Newsom’s state of emergency has enabled additional state resources including the California National Guard and assistance from the California Office of Emergency Services. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation and is offering federal resources for the effort. According to the White House, “FEMA approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to support areas that are impacted and help reimburse the state of California for the immediate firefighting costs.”
On the ground in Pacific Palisades and getting briefed by @CAL_FIRE on the #PalisadesFire in Los Angeles.
Californians in the affected areas should stay alert and follow evacuation orders from local authorities ➡️ https://t.co/gIKZPSxfln pic.twitter.com/v8A4N9FK9i
— Governor Newsom (@CAgovernor) January 7, 2025
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Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the fires, using both ground and aerial methods. Residents in adjacent areas like Malibu and Pasadena have been urged to prepare for possible evacuation. Celebrities who live in the area, including James Woods, Mark Hamill, and Steve Guttenberg, have been forced to flee the area, with some expressing concern over the status of their homes.
Despite the chaos and destruction, no deaths have been reported, though several injuries, including one to a firefighter, have occurred. Social media has been flooded with disturbing footage of the blaze, capturing the destruction in shocking detail.
Nightmare Fuel
Two men and a dog trapped in a home surrounded by the Palisades fire. pic.twitter.com/YDCkFmLNbH— Kevin Dalton (@TheKevinDalton) January 8, 2025
Please say a prayer for California tonight. I’ve been through wildfires and they’re a total nightmare. Just heartbreaking to see this. pic.twitter.com/xfwDNQKUry
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) January 8, 2025
The fire is believed to have started sometime on Tuesday, and its rapid spread has resulted in significant destruction, including the burning of Palisades Charter High School.
Emergency responders, including over 250 firefighters, are battling the blaze, which has created a plume of smoke visible across Los Angeles.
As the situation develops, officials continue to warn residents to heed evacuation orders and stay informed about the fire’s progress.
Connor Walcott is the lead writer for Valuetainment.com. Follow Connor on X and look for him on VT’s “The Unusual Suspects.”
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