LOS ANGELES – Wildfires raging through the Los Angeles region in January 2025 have forced the evacuation of more than 30,000 people, while the fire has already consumed more than 1,000 acres. The situation is critical due to intense Santa Ana winds, which have fueled the rapid advance of the flames, affecting homes, causing power outages and unleashing chaos on major evacuation routes. Authorities have warned that the next few hours will be decisive, as extreme weather conditions are expected to persist.
The origin of the fires is attributed to a combination of dry vegetation, hot air and winds reaching up to 160 kilometers per hour, which has led to the issuance of a red flag warning for a “particularly dangerous situation”. This alert covers Los Angeles, Ventura and Orange counties, including densely populated residential areas.
Because of the risk of downed power lines generating new fire outbreaks, preventive power outages have been implemented, affecting hundreds of thousands of residents. This measure seeks to reduce the danger of sparks that could cause more fires, a strategy that has already been used in previous events with positive results.
Declaration of emergency
With the spread of the fire, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared a state of emergency, allowing for greater mobilization of resources and expediting assistance to affected communities. “We are doing everything we can to protect our families and homes. I thank firefighters and first responders for their tireless work, and I reaffirm our commitment to provide shelter and support to those displaced,” Bass said.
Kristin Crowley, chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department, noted that geography and high winds are hampering efforts to contain the fire. “The fire is spreading rapidly and topographical conditions are challenging containment efforts. The next few hours will be critical,” Crowley said.
Currently, there are three major fires active. The Palisades Fire has consumed more than 1,200 acres, affecting upscale residential areas such as Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica. The Eaton Fire in the San Gabriel Mountains has damaged 400 hectares, while the Hurst Fire has destroyed about 200 hectares in the Sylmar region. Officials fear the flames will continue to spread in the coming days.
Impact and response
Although no injuries have been reported so far, the fire has destroyed numerous structures, leaving many families homeless. California Governor Gavin Newsom has also declared a state of emergency in the state, deploying more than 1,400 troops to deal with the crisis. “The situation is heartbreaking. Many homes have been reduced to ashes, but we are focused on protecting lives and containing the fire,” Newsom said.
One of the most alarming moments came when the flames reached the vicinity of the Getty Villa, a renowned art museum in Pacific Palisades. Although some of the vegetation on the site was affected by the fire, the building remained intact thanks to advanced protection systems and the quick response of the museum staff. Katherine Fleming, president of the J. Paul Getty Trust, confirmed that there was no structural damage and that both staff and collections are out of danger.
Uncertain forecast
The National Weather Service has warned that Santa Ana winds could continue for several days, with isolated gusts exceeding 100 miles per hour in mountainous areas. The lack of recent precipitation and dry conditions exacerbate the situation, increasing the risk of new fires breaking out.
The Los Angeles community remains on alert as firefighters continue to work around the clock to contain active fires. Authorities are asking residents to stay informed and follow evacuation instructions to protect their lives and the lives of their loved ones.
Source: https://es-us.noticias.yahoo.com/feroz-incendio-california-evacuaron-30-032347430.html
