On Tuesday, January 9, 2025, the Palisades Fire erupted in the Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles, California. As of now, the fire has burned down at least 23,713 acres of land, and is 11% contained. This is the most disastrous fire in Los Angeles’ history and has wreaked havoc throughout the Pacific Palisades and Malibu areas. Aside from the Palisades Fire, the Eaton Fire in Altadena has scorched an astounding 14,117 acres of land. The Kenneth Fire, which has erupted throughout Los Angeles and Ventura, has burned 1,052 acres but is now 90% contained. Meanwhile, the Hurst Fire in Los Angeles has consumed 799 acres of land.

Authorities have confirmed at least 24 deaths from two fires, with 16 from the Eaton Fire and 8 from the Palisades Fire. More than 105,000 California residents are still under evacuation orders, and almost 35,000 homes and businesses have been left without electricity. The exact cause of this string of fires is unknown as of now, though investigators are racing to determine its source through a number of assessments.

What the public does know is that the strong, blistering Santa Ana winds are only aiding the development of these wildfires as opposed to stopping them. These winds take place when a large area of high pressure becomes established over the interior of the western United States. When they descend over the inland Sierra mountains, they grow dry and accelerate in speed, hence their strength. Though they have since calmed down, they are expected to return. Los Angeles residents are running on the hope that a sudden chance of rainfall will hinder the spread of these fires before it is too late.