More than 48 hours have passed, and the fires in California remain out of control, spreading to more areas of the state. Now, the iconic Hollywood Boulevard is under threat from the fierce flames, with more people being evacuated from danger zones.
The Palisades Fire, the most destructive in Los Angeles history, has already burned over 6,800 hectares between Malibu and Santa Monica. This fire is joined by four others that are still active and have consumed nearly 12,000 hectares.
Where are the fires in California?
On Tuesday, January 7, when the emergency began, there were three fires. By Wednesday, the number increased to four, and today, five wildfires are devastating the state of California, especially Los Angeles County:
- Palisades: the fire extends along the coastal area between Malibu and Santa Monica.
- Eaton: this fire has already burned 4,290 hectares in Altadena.
- Hurst: flames are spreading through the San Fernando Valley.
- Lidia: so far, the fire has consumed 140 hectares.
- Sunset: the most recent fire, covering 17 hectares in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood.
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What are the damages caused by the fires in California?
To date, over 100,000 people have been evacuated from the most affected areas. The Palisades and Eaton fires have destroyed nearly 2,000 structures, and this number is expected to rise. Additionally, thousands of people remain without power.
Firefighters are working to control the flames at all five wildfire sites. Although winds have calmed slightly, the fires remain uncontained. Time is critical, as winds are expected to intensify again in the coming hours.
Los Angeles closures due to fires in California
This Thursday, sixteen school districts in Los Angeles County have suspended activities due to the devastation caused by five wildfires affecting the region. Among them is the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), the largest in California and the second-largest in the country. Authorities are currently evaluating the possibility of remote classes on Friday, January 10, with a decision to be announced today at 4 p.m. local time.
Of the 16 districts closed this Thursday, four have already confirmed that they will remain closed on Friday due to the intense wildfires:
- Burbank Unified School District
- Glendale Unified School District
- La Cañada Unified School District
- Pasadena Unified School District
What caused the fires in California?
The causes are still under investigation. However, meteorologists indicate that record rainfall in Los Angeles during 2024 led to a surge in vegetation, which has been a key factor in the current wildfires.
When the rains ended and drought conditions set in, this abundant vegetation became fuel for the fires, increasing the region’s vulnerability to widespread wildfires.
Hollywood Boulevard, iconic celebrity neighborhood, ablaze
In recent hours, an intense wildfire broke out in Hollywood Hills, leading to a massive evacuation of the iconic Hollywood Boulevard. Authorities have warned that another 100,000 residents should be prepared to evacuate their homes at any time.
Which celebrities have been affected by the Hollywood Boulevard fire?
As deadly wildfires sweep through Los Angeles, numerous Hollywood community members have suffered the loss of their homes. Among them are actor and comedian Billy Crystal, singer Mandy Moore, actress Anna Faris, and television host Ricki Lake.
Other celebrities who lost their mansions on Hollywood Boulevard include Paris Hilton, chef Sandra Lee, and actors James Woods and Steve Guttenberg.
