More than 30,000 people had to leave their homes due to the massive wildfire that broke out in the coastal areas of Los Angeles. The fire engulfed many houses and the flames have also affected the surrounding areas. The weather service has warned that the fire situation will worsen, as strong winds and dry weather increase the risk of the fire spreading to other parts of California.
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in view of the massive fire in the coastal area. Many buildings were destroyed and about 3,000 acres (1,200 ha) of land burned in Pacific Palisades. The area is home to many famous film and music stars. Huge crowds of people were seen on the streets to escape the flames, some of whom left their cars and started running to safer places as the fire spread rapidly.
Actor Steve Guttenberg told KTLA television that at this time we all had to work together and go out without worrying about our personal property. Take your loved ones to a safe place. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has appealed to residents to follow evacuation orders and use emergency rules. While posting on X, he said to be alert and stay safe.
Many people have been injured in the massive fire incident, some of whom have severe burn marks on their faces and hands. It is a matter of relief that no death has been reported so far. Famous Hollywood actor James Woods, while sharing information on social media platform X, said that he was successful in vacating his Pacific Palisades residence in time. However, they do not yet know whether the fire caused any damage to their house or whether it is still safe.
Another major fire, named the ‘Eaton Fire’, occurred in the Altadena area near Pasadena. This fire took a huge form very quickly and within a few hours it increased from 200 acres to a huge area of 1,000 acres (about 400 hectares). According to information given by CBS News, in view of the danger of rapidly spreading flames, about 100 elderly and helpless residents from a nursing home in Pasadena were immediately evacuated to safe places. A potential human tragedy could have been avoided by prompt action.
The Hearst Fire is spreading rapidly in the San Fernando Valley, northwest of Los Angeles. The fire, which initially spread over 100 acres (40 hectares), has now engulfed an area of more than 500 acres (202 hectares). More than 210,000 homes and businesses have lost power due to the fire, disrupting life in the region. Seeing the magnitude of the fire, federal agencies have also come into action. President Joe Biden has announced federal grants to the state of California to deal with this disaster, which will speed up relief efforts.
Efforts are going on at both ground and aerial levels to control the fire. Fire aircraft are filling water from the sea and dropping it on the fire, while bulldozers are busy removing vehicles stuck on the roads, so that there is no hindrance in relief and rescue operations. According to local media reports, evacuation orders have also been issued for parts of Malibu and Santa Monica due to the fire threat. Officials have appealed to residents to remain alert and follow instructions. The cause of the fire is not yet known and investigation in this regard is ongoing.