Fires Cause Mass Destruction in L.A.

On January 7, 2025, a series of fires broke out all over Los Angeles, California. The largest fire, the Palisades fire, has burned more than 23,700 acres and damaged or destroyed about 5,000 structures in Malibu and the Pacific Palisades. The second-largest fire is the Eaton fire, north of Pasadena, which has burned more than 14,000 acres and damaged or destroyed about 7,500 structures. 

Thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes. 

At least 27 people have been killed and 31 people are still missing as of January 16, 2025.

Fall and winter are prime time for wildfires in California, with the arrival of the Santa Ana winds. The winds leading up to this year’s devastating fires were projected to range from 50 to as high as 100 miles per hour. 

For those interested in assisting with relief efforts, donations can be made to the California Community Foundation, Altadena Girls, Project Angel Food and World Central Kitchen.