Key Points
- The Palisades Fire has expanded into Brentwood and Bel Air, forcing evacuations. The fires have claimed 16 lives and left 13 people missing.
- Over 14,000 personnel are fighting the fires, and containment progress is limited. Criticism is mounting over fire preparedness and utility accountability.
- Winds up to 60 mph are expected, threatening to worsen conditions.
- Economic losses are projected between $135 billion and $150 billion.
The relentless Palisades Fire continues its devastating march through Southern California, expanding northeast into affluent neighborhoods like Brentwood and Bel Air. According to County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Los Angeles faces another night of terror and grief, with dry winds reigniting concerns after a short lull.
The evacuation zones now include key cultural sites, such as the Getty Center, which houses a world-renowned art collection designed to withstand fire threats. UCLA’s campus remains on high alert, with officials advising preparations for evacuation as the blaze edges closer.
The fire’s destruction has claimed 16 lives, including 11 fatalities from the Eaton Fire in Altadena and 5 from the Palisades Fire. Over 13 people remain missing, and arrests for curfew violations and looting are rising. Meanwhile, more than 16,000 people have sought federal aid. Despite the efforts of 14,000 personnel and support from several states, the fires remain largely uncontained, burning over 36,000 acres combined and destroying more than 10,000 structures.
Governor Gavin Newsom has doubled National Guard responders, while California has invited President-elect Donald Trump to tour the damage. Trump’s past disaster response has been polarizing, and his current stance on the fires remains unclear. Utilities like Edison International face scrutiny for their potential role in sparking smaller fires, while power outages affect 50,000 residents.
Criticism of the region’s preparedness is mounting. Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley attributed challenges to budget cuts, while Mayor Karen Bass defended the reductions, citing economic constraints. Newsom has requested an investigation into hydrant failures, exacerbated by a reservoir under repair during the fires.
With containment still far off, officials warn that upcoming dry winds could worsen conditions, leaving millions at risk. Meteorologists predict gusts up to 60 mph early next week, making firefighting efforts even more daunting. The fires are among California’s most destructive in history, with potential economic losses estimated between $135 billion and $150 billion, further underscoring the magnitude of this disaster.