Los Angeles declares state of emergency as massive wildfire rages

Los Angeles has declared a state of emergency as a massive wildfire rapidly expanded from 10 to over 2,900 acres within hours.

Fire Chief Kristin Crowley stated that over 30,000 people are under evacuation orders, with 13,000 buildings under threat. Reports show homes burning in the Pacific Palisades area, where residents abandoned their cars to escape the flames.

The wildfire began around 10:30 a.m. (6:30 p.m. GMT) on Tuesday and spread quickly due to 80 km/h wind gusts and extremely dry conditions. County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone indicated that the Pacific Palisades area remains at high risk.

Another wildfire has also begun spreading rapidly in the Altadena area, near Eaton Canyon, approximately 40 km (26 miles) from the Palisades.

🚨 NOW: People are fleeing the Palisades Fire with their horses

Many other horses have been set free in order to save their lives

This is an increasingly devastating situation, and authorities are COMPLETELY overwhelmed. pic.twitter.com/pNgM6DNuhK
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) January 8, 2025

⁦Many brave neighbors stayed behind to fight the fire on Piedra Morada in Pacific Palisades this afternoon. Pacific Palisades Fire. Heroes. Praying for them and their homes. pic.twitter.com/ejJtJvC86X
— David Hansen (@investDRH) January 8, 2025

_{^{⁦Many brave neighbors stayed behind to fight the fire on Piedra Morada in Pacific Palisades this afternoon. Pacific Palisades Fire. Heroes. Praying for them and their homes.}}

Millions of Californians are under “red flag” warnings, indicating an extreme risk of fire.