Updated at 18.20 PM IST
49,000 people residing in Pacific Palisades, Pasadena and Sylmar neighborhoods of Los Angeles evacuated. Powerful winds have fuelled at least three more blazes in LA. Wildfires to leave damage worth billions of dollars as they scorch over 2,921 acres of land. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass faces criticism for being out of the country.&nbsp;
Updated at 11.43 AM IST
A fast-moving wildfire has forced evacuations in Southern California's Altadena region after breaking out in Eaton Canyon on Tuesday evening. The blaze, dubbed the "Eaton Fire," has already consumed over 400 acres amid dangerous windstorm conditions.
Multiple agencies have mobilized to combat the fire, including the Pasadena Fire Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department, and US Forest Service. The fire was first spotted at 6.30 pm, according to Angeles National Forest officials, and has been spreading rapidly due to the severe winds affecting the region.
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In a dramatic turn of events that has transformed the serene Pacific Palisades into a scene of urgent evacuation, a devastating wildfire is rapidly consuming one of Los Angeles' most prestigious neighborhoods, threatening thousands of homes and forcing mass evacuations.
The blaze, first spotted at 10.10 am Tuesday along West Sunset Boulevard, exhibited explosive growth characteristics, expanding from an initial report to 200 acres within just 90 minutes. By late afternoon, Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley confirmed the fire had engulfed approximately 1,260 acres, with the dangerous Santa Ana winds serving as the primary catalyst for its rapid spread.
The fire's ferocity has put at risk over 13,000 structures and forced evacuation orders affecting approximately 30,000 residents in this affluent coastal enclave, known for its celebrity residents and understated elegance. The Pacific Palisades, home to 9,400 residences spread across its tranquil landscape, now faces its most significant threat in recent memory.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, after personally witnessing the destruction of several buildings, issued an urgent plea for residents to comply with evacuation orders. The gravity of the situation prompted immediate federal attention, with President Joe Biden swiftly approving a Fire Management Assistance Grant to support containment efforts.
While the Los Angeles Fire Department reports several structures have sustained damage, there have been no injuries reported thus far. However, Chief Crowley emphasized that over 10,000 households remain under immediate threat as firefighting efforts continue.
Link of Los Angeles Fire Department statement&nbsp; 7.30 pm (Localtime)
https://lafd.org/news/palisades-fire-0

Los Angeles firefighters trying to douse flames

Wildfire devours 2,921 acres, to leave damage worth billions of dollars

LA: Powerful Winds Light Up 3 More Blazes, 49K People Evacuated

Wildfire devours 2,921 acres, to leave damage worth billions of dollars

January 8, 2025 | 09:39 IST