A fast-moving wildfire in the upscale Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles forced thousands to evacuate Tuesday as hurricane-force winds fueled the flames, which tore through multimillion-dollar homes in the Santa Monica Mountains.
According to the AFP, the fire, which erupted late morning, quickly grew to nearly 3,000 acres (1,200 hectares), leaving devastation in its wake. Panicked residents abandoned vehicles along the area’s narrow roads, fleeing on foot with pets and belongings.
Firefighters worked relentlessly on steep terrain, using bulldozers to clear paths and creating firebreaks to halt the spread.
“We are not out of danger,” warned Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone during a press briefing. “The winds are expected to intensify, and the situation remains precarious.”
Despite the chaotic evacuation, Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley confirmed there were no immediate reports of injuries or fatalities.
Gary, a Sea Ridge resident, described the frantic scene to KTLA: “There was smoke in the distance, and we were told it wouldn’t cross the hill. Five minutes later, it was coming straight at us.”
Another evacuee, Kelsey Trainor, recalled the terrifying drive down the mountain. “By the time we got to the bottom, flames were on both sides of the road. Traffic was gridlocked, horns were blaring, and people were fleeing with whatever they could carry,” she said.
Trainor added, “I saw elderly people in tears, children clutching onto pets, and others walking with suitcases. It was like a scene from a disaster movie.”
Meteorologist Daniel Swain highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that powerful Santa Ana winds, reaching up to 100 miles per hour, were expected to worsen conditions overnight. “This is just the beginning. Tonight could be even more challenging,” he cautioned.
The wildfire has already leveled several homes, with embers carried by the winds igniting spot fires far ahead of the main blaze. Around 30,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate as firefighters battle the flames from both the ground and the air.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced federal aid approval to support California’s firefighting efforts. “The president didn’t hesitate. He asked, ‘What else do you need?’” Newsom said, praising President Joe Biden’s swift response.
Wildfires are a frequent occurrence in California, but scientists emphasize that climate change has intensified their scale and frequency. Prolonged drought conditions followed by heavy rains have created an abundance of vegetation, leaving the region particularly vulnerable.
As smoke blanketed Los Angeles, events across the city were canceled, including the premiere of Jennifer Lopez’s new film “Unstoppable.” Residents are bracing for a long, grueling night as the winds show no signs of abating.
