Pasadena Fire Department Calls Eaton Fire the Worst in History
Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin described the Eaton Fire as “the worst brush fire and the worst incident Pasadena has ever seen.” Speaking from the Rose Bowl, which is serving as a large animal evacuation center, he confirmed that “a significant number of homes” have been lost. He added that the situation was a “worst-case scenario,” with fires spreading rapidly and trees falling as he drove through the area. Despite the efforts of firefighters, Augustin stated, “We could have another 500 firefighters here, and we still wouldn’t be able to stop this fire.” He emphasized the need for calmer winds and aerial water drops to control the blaze.
New Fire Breaks Out in Riverside County
A new fire, the Tyler Fire, broke out early on Wednesday in Riverside County, near Coachella. It has already burned around 15 acres. CAL FIRE is investigating the cause of the fire, and evacuations are underway. In addition, a utility pole collapsed during a live report on the ongoing Palisades Fire in Malibu, where around 150,000 people were without power as of 6 a.m.
Wildfires Continue to Rage Across Los Angeles County
The Palisades Fire remains the largest and most destructive of the fires in Los Angeles County. As of Wednesday morning, it has burned nearly 3,000 acres and is still 0% contained. Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Margaret Stewart described the fire as “dynamic and dangerous” due to extreme winds, gusting over 80 mph. She stressed that it is impossible to stop a wind-driven fire like this from the ground. The Palisades Fire began on Tuesday around 10:30 a.m. and has since spread to Malibu, Pacific Palisades, and Calabasas, with evacuation orders in effect for these areas.
Community Impact and Evacuations
The Chabad Jewish Community Center in Pacific Palisades evacuated about 100 preschool children as the fire neared. Rabbi Zushe Cunin, who oversees the center, expressed concern for the displaced families, stating, “Our hearts go out to those who have lost their homes. It’s a time for us all to come together and support one another.”
Mayor Karen Bass Criticized for Being Abroad
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is facing criticism for being out of the country during the wildfire crisis. Bass is currently in Ghana attending the inauguration of Ghana’s president. Local residents, including Rachel Darvish, who was forced to evacuate, questioned the mayor’s absence, with Darvish asking, “Where was the mayor when decisions needed to be made on evacuations?”
ALSO READ: Palisades fire: With winds picking up, officials warn the worst of the fire is yet to come
Insurance Concerns Amid Destruction
The wildfires are expected to cause billions of dollars in damage. Many residents in high-risk fire areas are unable to obtain insurance coverage, leaving them vulnerable. California regulators recently proposed new regulations requiring insurance companies to offer wildfire insurance, but a 30-day review period means there are no immediate solutions for those affected by the fires.
Fires Spread Rapidly with Strong Winds
The Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst Fires remain 0% contained. The Palisades Fire is spreading at an alarming rate, with flames advancing about five football fields per minute, making it challenging for firefighters to control. Strong Santa Ana winds, gusting up to 80 mph, are expected to continue, further spreading the flames.
ALSO READ: Celebrities Affected by the Los Angeles Fires: Those Who Lost Homes or Were Forced to Evacuate
Governor Gavin Newsom’s Response
Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the deployment of more than 1,400 firefighters and additional resources to battle the wildfires in Los Angeles County. He praised the efforts of first responders, saying, “All hands are on deck to protect lives,” and assured that mutual aid is coming from other areas in the state.
Los Angeles firefighters brace for 60 mph wind gusts through Thursday as they fight three major wildfires
The Los Angeles County Fire Department provided an update late Tuesday on efforts to control the rapidly spreading Palisades Fire, which has forced tens of thousands of people to evacuate due to the serious danger to life.
By Wednesday morning, the Palisades Fire had burned over 2,921 acres and is completely uncontained. Firefighters are also working to control the Eaton Fire and Hurst Fire, both of which are also at 0% containment.
The fires are spreading at a terrifying rate of about five football fields per minute, making it very difficult for firefighters to manage, especially in dense areas.
Strong Santa Ana winds, reaching up to 80 mph, are fueling the flames, and gusts of up to 60 mph are expected to continue through Thursday.
PALISADES FIRE | 2921 acres 0% containment. Extreme fire behavior, short & long-range spotting, continues to challenge firefighting efforts for the Palisades Fire. Winds gusts up to 60 MPH are expected to continue through Thursday. pic.twitter.com/QHKIh6u6FD
— L.A. County Fire Department (@LACoFDPIO) January 8, 2025
Destruction of Iconic Landmarks and Businesses
The fires have caused significant damage to several historic landmarks and businesses, including the Getty Villa Art Museum, the Reel Inn, Cholada Thai restaurant, and Rosenthal Winery. The owners of the Reel Inn shared their heartbreak on social media but expressed gratitude for the safety of their staff. “We are heartbroken but grateful for the support of the community,” they said.
Ongoing Efforts and Challenges for Firefighters
Firefighters continue to battle the rapidly spreading fires, but the situation remains critical. The fires are advancing quickly due to strong winds, and authorities are focused on protecting lives and property. Evacuations remain in place across affected areas, and officials warn that conditions will remain challenging with gusty winds expected to continue.