On January 8, wildfires driven by strong winds devastated the Los Angeles area, resulting in at least five fatalities and the destruction of hundreds of homes. Over 100,000 residents were forced to evacuate as firefighters struggled to contain the rapidly spreading flames.
A new fire, named the Sunset Fire, broke out in Hollywood Hills on Wednesday evening, leading to mandatory evacuation orders and burning approximately 60 acres, according to CalFire and the Los Angeles Fire Department.
In response to the crisis, President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration, while California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency. Despite nearly 5,000 first responders being deployed, most of the fires remained at 0% containment. Although winds were expected to calm overnight, forecasters warned that critical conditions would persist through Thursday.
The governor’s office indicated that nearly 5,000 first responders were actively working on the ground, including teams from Oregon, New Mexico, and Washington state. Biden also announced that the Defense Department would provide additional resources for firefighting efforts, including personnel and Navy helicopters equipped with water buckets. President Biden has decided to cancel his scheduled trip to Italy to focus on managing the federal response to the wildfires devastating in California.
Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo announced that five people have lost their lives due to the wildfires as of late Wednesday afternoon. The fires have destroyed more than 1,000 structures, including homes and businesses. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone noted there were many significant injuries among residents who chose not to evacuate, as well as among first responders.
Kevin McGowan, director of emergency management for Los Angeles County, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “We’re facing a historic natural disaster,” highlighting the urgency of the ongoing crisis.
