Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles, Killing Two and Forcing Mass Evacuations

Raging wildfires in Los Angeles have killed at least two people, destroyed hundreds of buildings, and forced more than 70,000 residents to evacuate as fierce winds and depleted water supplies hampered firefighting efforts. The fires, which began on Tuesday, have burned thousands of acres and remain 0% contained, officials said Wednesday.

The Pacific Palisades fire, one of the most destructive in Los Angeles history, has consumed nearly 12,000 acres and over 1,000 structures. Janisse Quinones, CEO of the city’s water and power department, said the municipal water system in the area was pushed to its limits, with tanks running dry and hydrants failing. “We’re fighting a wildfire with urban water systems, and that is really challenging,” Quinones said at a press conference.

Another blaze, the Eaton fire near Pasadena, has spread explosively, covering more than 10,000 acres and claiming two lives. The Hurst fire in Sylmar has also exceeded 500 acres. Firefighters are struggling with limited resources, as strong winds and smoke have grounded air support. “There are not enough firefighters in LA County to address four separate fires of this magnitude,” said an official.

Residents described harrowing escapes. Shaun Tate, 45, fled his Altadena home at 4:15 a.m. as flames approached. “I chose to save my laptop, my diabetic medication, and a little bit of food,” he said at an evacuation center. Pacific Palisades resident Cindy Festa recounted seeing fires “this close to the cars” as she evacuated.

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, and President Joe Biden planned to visit a Santa Monica fire station for a briefing. The National Weather Service had issued its highest alert for extreme fire conditions, citing low humidity, dry vegetation, and strong winds. “We’re facing a historic natural disaster,” said Kevin McGowan, director of emergency management for Los Angeles County.

Approximately 100 schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District were closed, and around 400,000 homes and businesses in Southern California were without power. The Getty Villa museum reported some damage to trees but said its priceless art collection remained safe due to preventive measures.