LA Wildfires: 153,000 Evacuated, 10,000 Structures Destroyed/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. mansour/ Morning Edition/ California’s devastating wildfires have displaced 153,000 residents and destroyed more than 10,000 structures. Firefighters made progress containing the Kenneth Fire, but intense recovery efforts and investigations continue. Officials issued curfews to deter looting, while resources and support pour in for displaced residents.
California Wildfires: Quick Looks
- Evacuation Updates: Orders reduced to 153,000 from 180,000 as Kenneth Fire containment hits 35%.
- Devastation Toll: Over 10,000 homes and structures burned, with 10 fatalities reported.
- Recovery Efforts: LA Mayor Karen Bass pledges to rebuild communities and unite residents.
- Drone Danger: A firefighting plane was grounded after a collision with a civilian drone.
- Climate Impact: Earth’s hottest year on record in 2024 underscores rising wildfire risks.
LA Wildfires: 153,000 Evacuated and 10,000 Structures Destroyed
Deep Look
The wildfires raging across the Los Angeles area have wreaked havoc, claiming at least 10 lives, displacing 153,000 residents, and leaving a trail of destruction. Firefighters are battling intense flames, with containment efforts underway, while officials and volunteers focus on recovery and providing aid to those affected.
Fire Containment Progress
Five major fires are burning across Los Angeles County, with varying levels of containment:
- Palisades Fire: 8% contained, the largest and most destructive.
- Eaton Fire: 3% contained, responsible for significant damage in Altadena.
- Kenneth Fire: 35% contained; all evacuation orders lifted.
- Hurst Fire: 37% contained.
- Lidia Fire: 75% contained, the most under control.
Widespread Destruction
The fires have destroyed over 10,000 homes and structures, including the Eaton Canyon Nature Center, which also burned in 1993. Staff were unable to evacuate animals, resulting in the deaths of 15 reptiles. Two desert tortoises survived because they were hibernating at a volunteer’s home.
“This park is a touchstone for the community,” said Eaton Canyon Superintendent Richard Smart. “Losing it again is indescribable.”
Evacuations and Curfews
Evacuation orders now affect 153,000 residents, down from a peak of 180,000. A curfew is in place across evacuation zones to prevent looting. Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna warned, “If you’re in these areas without authorization, you’re subject to arrest.”
At least 20 arrests have been made for looting and other crimes in burned neighborhoods. District Attorney Nathan Hochman vowed to prosecute offenders to the full extent of the law, calling looting a “despicable crime.”
Drone Disruption
A firefighting plane was grounded after a drone collided with it during operations. “Flying drones in fire zones is not only dangerous but illegal,” said LA County Fire Chief Anthony Perrone, adding that the damaged plane should be operational by Monday.
Recovery and Community Support
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized recovery and uniting the city:
“We’re fighting hard for every Angeleno,” Bass said. “This city will rebuild stronger than ever.”
Bass also apologized for erroneous emergency alerts that caused confusion. Officials are investigating the system errors and working to improve communication.
Aid for Displaced Residents
Multiple organizations are assisting evacuees and those affected by the fires:
- GoFundMe.org: Provides emergency grants for individuals and small businesses.
- Global Empowerment Mission: Distributes cash cards for immediate needs like food and accommodation.
- Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Supplies food to impacted households through 600 partner agencies.
Programs like Project Camp offer trauma-informed day camps for displaced children, while the Boys and Girls Clubs of Malibu provide counseling and case management for affected families.
Climate and Fire Causes
The wildfires coincide with the announcement that 2024 was Earth’s hottest year on record, with global temperatures surpassing the 1.5°C warming threshold set by the Paris Agreement. Rising temperatures are exacerbating wildfire risks worldwide.
Investigators are examining possible ignition sources for the fires, focusing on human causes such as arson or utility line malfunctions. Lightning has been ruled out as no strikes were recorded near the fires’ origins.
Looking Ahead
With strong winds forecasted to return next week, firefighters and officials are racing to contain the flames and prepare for potential new outbreaks. The battle against these historic wildfires underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and improving disaster preparedness.
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