Five killed, thousands displaced as Eaton fire burns 10,600 acres in LA

Eaton fire kills 5, burns 10,600 acres, damages 200-500 homes, and forces evacuations.

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A fast-moving brush fire in the hills above Altadena, California, known as the Eaton Fire, has rapidly spread to 10,600 acres, leaving five people dead, damaging or destroying between 200 to 500 structures, and prompting evacuations for more than 100,000 people, authorities reported on Wednesday.

The fire, which began on Tuesday, was fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching speeds of up to 70 mph.

As of late Wednesday, the fire remains 0% contained, and hundreds of firefighters, some from outside the state, are working to control the blaze.

The cause of the fire and the identities of the victims have not been confirmed, though the five reported deaths were acknowledged by Angeles National Forest officials.

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said there have also been “a number of significant injuries.” Evacuation orders were issued for multiple areas, including La Cañada Flintridge, Altadena, Pasadena, Sierra Madre, and Arcadia. As of Wednesday afternoon, evacuation orders affected over 70,000 residents, with some 100,000 people under evacuation warnings.

 

 

 

 

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Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris praised the efforts of first responders, noting that they were able to evacuate or rescue numerous individuals from danger. "These first responders acted heroically by going in and either evacuating or rescuing numerous folks," Harris said during a press conference.

Authorities confirmed that over 700 personnel were deployed to fight the fire, but weather conditions, including high winds and low humidity, are expected to last until at least Friday evening. "Los Angeles County firefighters will remain on the frontline until we reach full containment," Chief Marrone stated.

In the midst of this emergency, three individuals were arrested for looting. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna condemned the act, saying, "That is 100 percent unacceptable," urging those affected by the fire not to face additional hardships.

As the fire progressed, it impacted both residential and educational areas. Preliminary assessments showed that at least five campuses in Altadena were damaged, including the Eliot Arts Magnet Academy and Franklin Elementary.

Consequently, schools in Pasadena and Arcadia were closed for the remainder of the week, and nearby community centers and public facilities were also shut down as a precaution.

Shelters for evacuees have been set up at several locations, including the Pasadena Convention Center and the Westwood Recreation Center, and additional assistance has been provided for pets.

Pasadena Humane is accepting small animals, while large animals are being directed to Pierce College Equestrian Center in Woodland Hills.

 

 

 

 

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As the fire continues to ravage the region, officials emphasize that the situation remains dangerous. "Critical fire weather will last through 6 p.m. Friday for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties," the National Weather Service warned. "We ask that you keep all of Los Angeles County in your thoughts and prayers," Chief Marrone added.