Here we go again. Yet another Santa Monica Mountains fire during a north wind event ravages the hillsides of Los Angeles and Malibu. Another fire sending residents fleeing for their lives from the Palisades fire. Concurrently, the same inevitable winds started the Franklin fire in December and four other fires including the equally tragic Eaton fire in Altadena. Official causes for these fire ignitions in the last week won’t be reported until full investigations are complete. As a result, a mix of facts, rumors and misinformation are making it hard to know what’s true and what’s not. Meanwhile, (understandably) the mayor, governor, water district, and disaster planners are under the magnifying glass.
Los Angeles Fires
We’re sure you’ve heard… but Los Angeles is yet again dealing with devastating wildfires that have left a significant mark on the region. The combination of dry conditions and stronger than usual Santa Ana Winds fueled the flames; resulting in widespread destruction. The Palisades fire has burned over 21,000 acres and destroyed or damaged at least 5,000 structures in Pacific Palisades and Malibu. Meanwhile, 20 miles to east, the Eaton Fire has burned over 14,000 acres and affected at least 7,000 structures in and around Altadena. Fortunately, crews were able to corral both the Hurst and Kenneth fires without major implications. Due to dense populations in both fire footprints, RedZone has been busy supporting our Dashboard and Response clients, when they need us most.
Several Large fires broke out across Los Angeles on January 7th and 8th, 2025
Wildfires have burned the majority of mountainsides of the entire LA Area since 2000. It appears location could be a contributing factor to the Eaton and Palisades fires growth. Both both burned in areas with more fuel due to little fire history in the last 25 years. Whereas, Hurst and Kenneth burned within recent burn scars likely helping to keep them from getting as out of control. (Saddleridge and Woolsey, respectively) [Source: NIFC]
Los Angeles Fire Impacts
In total, over 12,000 structures have been estimated as damaged or destroyed. Approximately 172,000 residents received evacuation orders. Tragically, 24 lives have been lost, and many more have been injured as the fires rage on. The economic impact of these wildfires is staggering. Early estimates put total losses at a potential $275 billion, a figure that underscores the enormity of the disaster. Insured losses alone are expected to exceed $20 billion, with thousands of residents and businesses facing long roads to recovery. The area is picking up the pieces as activity on these fires has finally subsided. But, the fight may not be over. This week brought another similar wind event, and forecasts indicate another is lining up for next week. To make matters worse, there is no rain in sight, leaving the region vulnerable to further fire risk. We’ve seen this before so maybe no rain for a bit could be a blessing in disguise.
