The Palisades Fire in Los Angeles, California, has prompted officials to implement mandatory evacuations as a thick blanket of smoke envelops the area. The blaze, which was first reported around 10:30 AM local time (18:30 GMT), escalated alarmingly from an initial 20 acres to over 200 acres within a mere 20 minutes.
This massive wildfire, fueled by extreme winds, swept through the Pacific Palisades, a neighborhood known for its celebrity residences. In light of the rapidly advancing flames, a state of emergency has been declared, leading to the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. Many individuals found themselves trapped, abandoning their vehicles and fleeing on foot as roadways became impassable.
Firefighters are engaged in a fierce battle against the flames, which are advancing at an alarming rate of approximately five football fields per minute. They are facing significant challenges, including dwindling water supplies and resources, as evacuation alerts extend to nearby Malibu and Calabasas.
The fire's rapid expansion can be attributed to a combination of extremely dry conditions and unusually strong winds, which are expected to intensify overnight. Additionally, another fire has ignited near Eaton Canyon, northeast of Pasadena, further complicating the firefighting efforts across the region.
Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley addressed the media, confirming that multiple structures have sustained damage due to the fire. She indicated that over 10,000 homes and approximately 13,000 structures are currently at risk from the advancing flames.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, who declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, urged residents to take evacuation orders seriously, especially after witnessing the destruction of several buildings firsthand. "We are by no means out of danger," Newsom remarked, emphasizing the need for vigilance. He also mentioned that the state has mobilized personnel, fire trucks, and aircraft to various locations throughout Southern California to combat the widespread fire threat.
Zainab Y.
Also on site :
- Palestinian activist Khalil denied release for son’s birth, wife says
- Education Ministry rehabilitates 70 schools since Assad regime’s fall
- Pope Francis’s will in full: Pontiff’s final wishes and place of burial