LA Wildfires Worsen as Thousands Evacuate, Curfews Enforced

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna warned residents on Tuesday that the next 24 hours would be “very dangerous” as wildfires continue to ravage Southern California, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds. Over 88,000 people remain under evacuation orders, with 39 arrests made overnight for curfew violations, burglary, and drone use in restricted areas.

Sheriff Luna emphasized the importance of adhering to the 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew in evacuation zones, stating, “If you do not live there, have any business there, I say this every day, don’t go.” He confirmed that 33 arrests occurred in the Eaton Fire area, while six were made near the Palisades Fire.

Kristin Crowley, head of the Los Angeles County Fire Department, provided an update on the fires, noting that the Palisades Fire has burned 23,713 acres and is 17% contained. The Eaton Fire has consumed 14,117 acres with 35% containment, while the smaller Hurst Fire is 97% contained at 799 acres. A new blaze, the Auto Fire, has burned 56 acres but has been halted from advancing.

Firefighters, aided by over 1,850 National Guard troops and international support from Mexico, continue to battle the flames. Crowley expressed gratitude for the assistance, stating, “Our firefighters and first responders are standing strong, they hold their heads up high, and they will continue to work hard for you.”

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service issued a “particularly dangerous situation” warning for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with wind gusts exceeding 70 mph in some areas. These conditions, combined with low humidity and dry vegetation, create a high risk for rapid fire spread.

The wildfires have also caused significant cultural losses, including the destruction of 100,000 musical scores belonging to the family of composer Arnold Schoenberg. Larry Schoenberg, the composer’s son, described the loss as “brutal,” though original manuscripts stored in Vienna remain intact.

As the fires rage, displaced residents face challenges in finding housing in Los Angeles’ already competitive market. Michael Storc, who lost his home in the fire, shared his struggles, stating, “What’s available is not nice at all, and the rents have gone up a lot.”

Authorities have opened two Disaster Recovery Centers to assist affected residents with financial aid, housing, and insurance claims. The centers are located near the Palisades and Eaton fire zones.

With winds expected to intensify, officials urge residents to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.