Wildfires Continue to Spread Throughout Southern California
Beginning on Tuesday, January 8, three rapid fires swept through Los Angeles County, destroying thousands of homes and businesses and forcing people in the area to evacuate. The fires started due to dry conditions spread by strong winds.
Among the hardest-hit areas is Southern California’s Pacific Palisades, which has faced the most severe impact.
According to live updates from CNN, the fires are continuing to move quickly, burning the equivalent of five football fields per minute and covering a total of 2,900 acres so far.
Firefighters are still working to control the massive blazes. Unfortunately, as of Wednesday morning, reports say they are zero percent contained. Mandatory evacuations are in place across many areas. People in Los Angeles County are rushing to get to safety, leaving their belongings behind.
Videos from the last 24 hours show just how much of the area is burning. Some people even had to leave their cars and escape on foot.
California Residents Are Seen Running From Wildfires With Horses
In a powerful moment captured on camera by Fox News, a video shows two residents in the Altadena area walking alongside their horses as tall flames, thick smoke, and debris surround them.
Watch the chilling video below.
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Maps, Resources, and Shelters
For those needing assistance or unsure of what to do, evacuation maps have been shared to guide residents. If you live in the red zone on the map below, you are legally required to evacuate and find shelter immediately. Residents in the yellow zone are under an evacuation warning and are strongly encouraged to seek shelter as well.
The Los Angeles Fire Department has announced several shelters that are now open to evacuees.
- The Westwood Recreation Center, located at 1350 S Sepulveda Blvd, 90025, is accepting both people and small animals. It is also providing overnight accommodations for those in need.
- The Los Angeles Equestrian Center located at 480 Riverside Dr, Burbank is accepting evacuees with larger animals and pets.
You can stay up to date with more information and news directly from the Los Angeles Fire Department through their official website by clicking here.
Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the wildfires in the Los Angeles area.