A rapidly growing brush fire fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds has forced the evacuation of at least 30,000 residents in the affluent Pacific Palisades community of Los Angeles.
The Palisades Fire, first reported Tuesday morning, has exploded in size, consuming over 2,921 acres with zero containment as of Tuesday night. The Los Angeles County Fire Department estimates that more than 10,300 homes are currently threatened by the blaze.
The fire’s rapid growth has caused chaos and panic as residents scramble to evacuate. Major roadways are jammed with fleeing cars, and many people have been forced to abandon their vehicles and escape on foot due to gridlock and approaching flames.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in response to the fire, mobilizing resources to assist with firefighting efforts and support evacuees.
The White House has announced that it is closely monitoring the situation and has offered federal assistance to help combat the blaze. FEMA has approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to support impacted areas and help reimburse the state for firefighting costs.
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Adding to the crisis, a second brush fire ignited Tuesday evening near Altadena, north of downtown Los Angeles. Firefighters are battling this new blaze, which has the potential for significant growth due to the ongoing strong winds.
With multiple fires raging and resources stretched thin, the Los Angeles Fire Department has requested that all off-duty firefighters report for duty to assist in the firefighting efforts.
This is a developing story.
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