Los Angeles, CA – January 8, 2025 – Fast-moving wildfires fueled by Santa Ana winds are wreaking havoc across the Los Angeles area, forcing thousands of residents to flee. The fires, which began Tuesday evening, have rapidly spread, destroying homes and overwhelming emergency services.

A senior living center northeast of Los Angeles was evacuated as flames approached, and residents in Pacific Palisades scrambled to escape. Many roads became impassable, and people fled on foot as fire consumed properties. A third wildfire erupted in Sylmar late Tuesday.

More than 30,000 people have been evacuated, with 13,000 structures at risk. The fire, exacerbated by winds reaching up to 100 mph, has grounded aircraft and prompted the call for additional firefighters. Power outages have affected nearly 167,000 people in Los Angeles County, and dry conditions are worsening the situation.

Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, and FEMA has approved firefighting support. The President, staying in Los Angeles, canceled a scheduled visit as the fires continued to spread.