Wildfires Force Mass Evacuations in Los Angeles: Over 30,000 Flee

Pacific Palisades Blaze
A fast-moving wildfire, named the Palisades Fire, has scorched 2,921 acres (1,182 hectares) in the upscale Pacific Palisades area near Santa Monica and Malibu. The blaze has destroyed several homes, injured multiple people, and led to the evacuation of more than 30,000 residents. With high winds, dry vegetation, and low humidity creating extreme fire conditions, Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley reported that 10,000 homes remain under threat.

Traffic and Evacuation Challenges
Evacuations were hindered by traffic jams as residents fled via limited routes. Many abandoned vehicles on roads, forcing some to escape on foot. A Pacific Palisades resident described flames dangerously close to fleeing cars.

Getty Villa and Nearby Areas
Flames singed trees near the Getty Villa museum, which remains safe due to preventive measures. Meanwhile, fires spread towards Malibu, engulfing more homes.

Eaton and Hurst Fires
Two other fires erupted in the region. The Eaton Fire, near Pasadena, doubled to 400 acres, prompting the evacuation of 100 nursing home residents. The Hurst Fire in Sylmar led to additional evacuations.

State of Emergency and Federal Support
Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, positioning resources across Southern California. President Joe Biden offered federal assistance, grounding his Air Force One flight due to powerful winds.

Impact on Residents
Pacific Palisades, home to Hollywood stars, saw several evacuations. Actors James Woods and Steve Guttenberg urged cooperation during this crisis, emphasizing safety over property.