Devastating California Wildfires Claim 16 Lives, Force New Evacuations

California’s devastating wildfires continue to rage on, claiming 16 lives and forcing new evacuations. The Palisades Fire, which started on January 7, 2025, has burned over 22,660 acres and is only 11% contained. The fire has destroyed numerous structures, with over 5,000 reportedly lost.

Another fire, the Eaton Fire, has also been wreaking havoc, burning over 14,117 acres and destroying 972 structures. The fire, which started on the same day as the Palisades Fire, is only 15% contained and has forced evacuation orders in several areas.

Evacuation Zones and Shelters

If you’re in the affected areas, please note that evacuation orders are in place, and several shelters have been set up to provide assistance. Some of the evacuation zones include:

Palisades Fire: Zones DRY-U026-A, LOS-Q0762, LOS-Q0762-A, LOS-Q0765, LOS-Q0767, LOS-Q0778-A, LOS-Q0779, LOS-Q0780, LOS-Q0781-A, LOS-Q0782-A, LOS-Q0782-B, LOS-Q0798, LOS-Q1118, MAL-C111-A, MAL-C111-B, MAL-C112-B, MTN-U028, RMB-U030-A, RMB-U030-B, RMB-U030-D, RMB-U030-E, RMB-U030-F, RRC-U027, SAN-Q1395-B, SDP-U029, SSM-U010-A, SSM-U010-B, TOP-U001, TOP-U002, TOP-U003, TOP-U004, TOP-U005, TOP-U006, TOP-U007, TOP-U008, TOP-U009
Eaton Fire: Zones ALD-ARROYOSECO, ALD-CALAVERAS, ALD-CANON, ALD-CASITAS, ALD-CHANEY, ALD-EASTLOMA, ALD-EATONCANYON, ALD-FARNSWORTH, ALD-GARDEN, ALD-…

Some of the shelters set up include:

Lanark Recreation Center, 21816 Lanark St, Canoga Park, CA 91304
Calvary Community Church, 5495 Via Rocas, Westlake Village, CA 91362
El Camino Real Charter High School (Relocated to Ritchie Valens Recreation Center), 5440 Valley Circle Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Please Stay Safe

Please stay safe and follow the instructions of local authorities. For more information, you can contact the Palisades Fire Public Information Line at (213) 484-5604 or the Eaton Fire Public Information Line at 626-662-0120.

Containment Efforts

Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the fires, with multiple agencies assisting in the efforts. The Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department, and the US Forest Service are among the agencies involved.

Causes of the Fires

The causes of the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire are still under investigation. However, officials suspect that strong winds and dry conditions contributed to the spread of the fires.

Support for Affected Communities

The American Red Cross and other organizations are providing support to affected communities, including shelter, food, and emotional support. Donations can be made to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to support those affected by the wildfires.

The devastating California wildfires continue to rage on, claiming lives and destroying properties. As the situation remains fluid, it’s essential to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities. Our thoughts are with those affected by the wildfires, and we hope for a swift containment of the fires.