Los Angeles, January 10, 2025: Two colossal wildfires—one in the Pacific Palisades and another near Pasadena—continue to burn uncontained, wreaking havoc on Los Angeles. These fires, dubbed the most destructive in the city’s history, have scorched nearly 28,000 acres, destroyed thousands of structures, and displaced 180,000 people. However, officials reported critical progress in containing the Hollywood blaze.
Firefighters announced Thursday that the Sunset Fire, which had forced evacuations in Hollywood and Hollywood Hills—including landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre—was fully contained. No structures were lost, and evacuation orders were lifted, according to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
“We’re grateful for this victory, but our work is far from over,” said Kristin Crowley, Los Angeles City Fire Department Chief.
The Palisades Fire, raging between Santa Monica and Malibu, and the Eaton Fire near Pasadena remain uncontained. These fires have collectively claimed at least five lives, with the death toll expected to rise, Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna warned.
The Palisades Fire has devastated entire neighborhoods, including homes of celebrities such as Billy Crystal and Paris Hilton. Hilton described watching her Malibu beachfront house “burn to the ground on live TV,” while Crystal expressed heartbreak over losing his family home of more than 40 years.
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone confirmed that the spread of the Eaton Fire has been significantly slowed due to a decrease in wind speeds. However, gusts of up to 96 km/h are forecast to persist, raising concerns of further flare-ups.
Exhausted local firefighting crews are being reinforced by personnel and resources from across the U.S. and Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged water bombers and 250 firefighters, with more resources on standby.
President Joe Biden convened a federal response team on Thursday to coordinate efforts. “This is a national emergency,” the White House stated.
Thousands of displaced residents have sought refuge in shelters. In Pasadena, Kevin Williams described fleeing as gas canisters exploded under the intense heat, likening the scene to a “war zone.”
Oliver Allnatt, whose home in Pacific Palisades was reduced to ash, called the aftermath “something out of a movie,” as he surveyed the ruins wearing a filtered mask and ski goggles.
Community efforts to support evacuees have emerged. Food trucks like Jeff Harris’ Feisty Fish Poke are offering free meals, while neighbors donate blankets, clothing, and pet supplies.
The fires are so massive they are visible from space, according to satellite imagery. The National Weather Service extended Red Flag Warnings for Los Angeles and Ventura counties through Friday, citing high winds, dry conditions, and soaring temperatures.
Kristin Crowley summed up the situation: “This is one of the most destructive natural disasters in Los Angeles’ history. And it’s far from over.”
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, returning from an official trip to Ghana, faced criticism over the city’s preparedness. She emphasized that the priority remains saving lives and homes, adding that the effectiveness of the response would be evaluated after the crisis.
As the fires rage on, the city remains united in resilience, supported by local and international aid, as it braces for the challenges ahead.
