Unprecedented Wildfires Ravage LA County in January

 

By Santa Clarita Star Staff

 

Wildfires in Los Angeles County, including the record-breaking Palisades Fire, have displaced over 175,000 residents, claimed 16 lives, and burned more than 20,000 acres, underscoring the urgency of wildfire prevention and disaster response. Local leaders like Congressman George Whitesides and Senator Alex Padilla have praised firefighters and first responders while advocating for federal and state coordination to address the ongoing crisis and future climate resilience.

 

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — Wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles County have displaced over 175,000 residents, claimed at least five lives, and burned more than 17,000 acres as of Tuesday. The Palisades Fire, the largest and most destructive of the blazes, has already set a grim record as the worst wildfire in the county’s history.
 

As first responders battle the flames and residents grapple with evacuation orders, newly sworn-in Congressman George Whitesides has been actively addressing the crisis, both on the ground and online. Whitesides, representing California’s 27th Congressional District, has been a visible presence at evacuation centers and fire command hubs, offering support to firefighters and displaced residents alike.
 

“I just visited the Hurst Fire Command Center at Fire Station 87 in Granada Hills to thank our brave firefighters and first responders battling the wildfires,” Whitesides posted on X, formerly Twitter, on Jan. 8. “Also thanked the police officers who are protecting our evacuated areas. Their courage and dedication are saving lives and protecting communities.”

The Congressman also emphasized the importance of heeding evacuation orders and staying informed. “Please stay safe and follow all warnings from fire and law enforcement officials,” he added. “There are new fires in our area. Evacuate immediately if instructed—your safety is the top priority. We will be posting updated information as we receive it.”
 

In another post the same day, Whitesides visited evacuees at the Richie Valens Community Center in Pacoima, commending the Red Cross for their efforts. “Hearing the stories of evacuees in CA27 and throughout LA County has been heartbreaking,” he wrote. “We are thankful for the Red Cross team here ... for providing a space for families to evacuate and get out of harm’s way.”
 

The wildfires began on Jan. 7, an unusual time of year for such catastrophic blazes in Southern California. According to the World Resources Institute, wildfires in January are infrequent, with fire alerts for the first two weeks of 2025 already exceeding 60—a staggering 40 times the average for this period over the past decade. Historically, California’s wildfire season occurs between June and October, tapering off with the arrival of cooler temperatures and rain. However, this winter has brought only 4% of the normal rainfall for the season, leaving vegetation dry and vulnerable.
 

Whitesides has called for increased federal and state coordination to address the immediate crisis and long-term wildfire prevention. He has advocated for enhanced funding for firefighting resources and investments in climate resiliency to mitigate future disasters.
 

Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) praised firefighters and first responders. "To the brave firefighters and first responders risking everything to protect lives, homes, and our communities: You are true heroes. Thank you," Padilla posted on X.
 

"To the people of the communities affected by the wildfires, my heart aches for those who have lost your homes, memories and everything that you have built over your life," LA County Sheriff Luna wrote on X. "I send my sincere sympathy to all who are impacted by this heartbreaking situation. You have endured so much through these difficult times."
 

 

 

Timeline of the Fires

Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025:

• 10:30 a.m. PST: The Palisades Fire starts in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, prompting evacuation orders for about 30,000 people as it initially spreads to 2,000 acres.
   
• 5:30 p.m. PST: Governor Newsom declares a state of emergency, urging residents to heed evacuation orders amid extreme fire risk.
• 10:29 p.m. PST: The Hurst Fire ignites in the Sylmar area.
   

Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025:

• 6:15 a.m. PST: The Woodley Fire begins in the Sepulveda Basin, covering 30 acres before being brought under control.
• 8:00 a.m. PST: Los Angeles Fire Chief Anthony Marrone reports two civilian deaths from the Eaton Fire.
• 1:25 p.m. PST: The Palisades Fire grows to 15,832 acres, making it the largest fire burning in Los Angeles County.
• 3:10 p.m. PST: The death toll from the Eaton Fire rises to five.

• 5:11 p.m. PST: President Biden approves a Major Disaster Declaration for California, unlocking federal funding for disaster response.
   

Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025:

• 2:30 a.m. PST: The Kenneth Fire begins in West Hills and spreads to 50 acres.
• 8:35 p.m. PST: A suspect is arrested on suspicion of arson related to the Kenneth Fire.
• 10:00 p.m. PST: The Los Angeles County Sheriff requests National Guard support.
   

Friday, Jan. 10, 2025:

• 8:15 a.m. PST: The Palisades Fire expands to over 20,000 acres, with only 8% containment.
• 1:26 p.m. PST: Evacuation warnings are lifted for the Archer Fire in Granada Hills.
   

Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025:

• 7:00 p.m. PST: The death toll climbs to 16, with five deaths from the Palisades Fire and 11 from the Eaton Fire.
   

Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025:

• 6:02 a.m. PST: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell warns of worsening winds that could intensify fire conditions.

• 8:15 a.m. PST: Sheriff Robert Luna reports 16 missing persons, urging residents to stay out of evacuation zones due to severe hazards.
   

 

Stay Informed

Ready LA: Sign up for real-time evacuation notices and critical updates specific to LA County. Learn what evacuation notices mean and how to be prepared.
 

Active Fire Incident Map (CAL FIRE): Monitor ongoing fires, including evacuation maps and shelter listings.
 

Air Quality Monitoring (South Coast AQMD): Get real-time air quality updates for Los Angeles and surrounding areas.