Five Fatalities and Over 2,000 Structures Lost in LA County Firestorm
Wildfires fueled by powerful winds have caused significant damage and loss of life across Los Angeles County. Tragically, at least five people have died, and over 2,000 structures have been destroyed or damaged in what is being described as one of the most destructive firestorms in the region’s recent history. Red-flag warnings remain in Los Angeles.
- At least five fatalities reported.
- Over 2,000 structures destroyed or damaged.
- Red flag warnings remain in effect.
Multiple Fires Impacting Different Areas
Key Fires and Their Impact
Firefighters have been battling multiple blazes, exacerbated by winds gusting up to 100 mph. The major fires include:
- Palisades Fire: Burned over 15,800 acres, impacting numerous homes, businesses, and landmarks in Pacific Palisades and westward along Pacific Coast Highway towards Malibu.
- Eaton Fire: Scorched more than 10,000 acres and damaged or destroyed many structures in Altadena and Pasadena.
- Sunset Fire: Erupted around 5:45 p.m. and appeared to be spreading south towards Hollywood Boulevard.
- Hurst Fire: Burned 700 acres in the Sylmar area.
- Four major fires are impacting the region.
- Significant acreage burned and numerous structures lost.
The Human Cost and Eyewitness Accounts
Tragic Loss of Life in Altadena
The five fatalities were discovered within three structures in Altadena, where the Eaton fire rapidly intensified on Tuesday night, leaving residents little time to evacuate. The Los Angeles County Fire Department estimates that over 1,000 structures have been destroyed in the Palisades fire and approximately another 1,000 damaged or destroyed in the Eaton fire.
- Five deaths occurred in Altadena.
- Significant property damage in both Palisades and Eaton fires.
“It’s Like Armageddon”: A Community’s Experience
Canyon Bakery owner Patrice Winter described the scene as “like Armageddon.” She witnessed the rapid spread of the Palisades fire and the frantic evacuations of her neighbors in Topanga Canyon. Having lived in the area for 55 years and witnessed fires before, she emphasized that this event was unprecedented in its scale and intensity.
- Eyewitness accounts describe the devastation.
- The rapid spread and intensity of the fires are highlighted.
New Fires Erupting and Ongoing Challenges
Fresh Outbreaks in Hollywood Hills and Studio City
Even as firefighters continue to battle existing blazes, new fires broke out Wednesday night in the Hollywood Hills and Studio City. Several homes appear to have been affected in Studio City around 9 p.m. These new outbreaks further strain resources and complicate firefighting efforts.
- New fires have emerged in Hollywood Hills and Studio City.
- These new outbreaks add to the already challenging situation.
Source : https://www.latimes.com/