Numerous wildfires are affecting southern California, particularly in the areas of Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, and the San Fernando Valley. Strong winds are fueling the flames, which has further complicated the situation. Below, we provide an update on the devastating fires in California.
Fourth wildfire confirmed in California
Initially, there were three wildfires ravaging Los Angeles County; however, on Wednesday, a fourth fire was confirmed, now in Riverside County, called the Tyler Fire.
Where are the fires in California?
The wildfires in California are affecting various regions in the southern part of the state, especially in Los Angeles County. Among the most critical hotspots are:
- Pacific Palisades: A fire has impacted this coastal community in the west side of Los Angeles, destroying homes and forcing mass evacuations. This fire is one of the most severe and has wiped out a large part of the area.
- Eaton Canyon (Pasadena): In Eaton Canyon, near Pasadena, a fire has sparked a firestorm that spread rapidly, burning several acres and damaging homes. Evacuations have been carried out in several areas, including a nursing home.
- Hurst (San Fernando Valley): In Sylmar, a suburb north of Los Angeles, a fire has consumed around 505 acres (204 hectares). This has prompted evacuations in nearby areas and threatens other residential properties.
READ ALSO CES 2025: Intel presents new Core Ultra 200V processor; that’s how it works
How did the fires in California start?
The fire in Pacific Palisades began on January 7, 2025, but authorities are still investigating its origin. The fire spread quickly due to the strong winds, ravaging a large area of land and putting several neighborhoods in danger. The city of Santa Monica also issued evacuation orders due to the proximity of the fire.
It is believed that the Eaton Canyon fire, which started almost simultaneously with the Pacific Palisades fire, may have originated when the Santa Ana winds began blowing forcefully. High temperatures and dry vegetation would have favored the rapid spread of the flames. In this area, flying sparks and embers may have ignited several hotspots, leading to the formation of a “firestorm,” according to authorities.
The Hurst fire, on the other hand, could have been triggered under similar conditions. It is suspected that embers from a nearby fire, combined with the Santa Ana winds, started the blaze, which spread rapidly due to dry vegetation and intense gusts. Although the exact details of the fire’s origin have not been confirmed, authorities continue the investigation.
Deaths from the fires in California
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone has reported that the death toll from the wildfires that are still active in the city’s metropolitan area has increased from two to five. Like the first victims, the last three deaths were recorded in the Pasadena/Altadena region.
In addition, local hospitals are treating people affected by the flames, some with burns and others with respiratory problems due to smoke inhalation. However, the exact number of injured individuals has not been specified.
How many acres have burned in the California wildfire?
The wildfires still burning in the Los Angeles metropolitan area have scorched a total of 10,901 acres:
- Palisades Fire: 6,407 acres
- Eaton Fire: 4,290 acres
- Hurst Fire: 204 acres
Meanwhile, the Tyler Fire in Riverside has devastated approximately 6 acres.
Evacuations due to the fires in California
At least 30,000 people have been evacuated from Pacific Palisades and other nearby areas, including Pasadena and the San Fernando Valley. However, evacuees are facing obstacles due to traffic blocking the streets and restricted escape routes.
What are the Santa Ana winds that fueled the wildfire in California?
The Santa Ana winds are dry and warm currents that originate from the inland and head towards the coast, creating an environment conducive to the expansion of wildfires. These winds, which can reach speeds of up to 99 miles per hour, intensify the fire by carrying sparks and debris.
