How did wildfires impact LA in 2025?

California's January 2025 wildfires devastated LA, affecting thousands, including celebrities.

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In January 2025, California faced a series of devastating wildfires, particularly impacting the Los Angeles area.

The most significant blazes included the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires, which collectively scorched over 38,000 acres. These fires resulted in the destruction of more than 12,000 structures and claimed at least 25 lives.

 

 

 

 

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The first major wildfire of the season, on january 2, 2025 the Palisades Fire, broke out in the Pacific Palisades area due to high winds and dry vegetation.

The fire rapidly spread, prompting immediate evacuations. The overall damage was 10,000 acres burned in the first 48 hours. Hundreds of homes destroyed; celebrities like Billy Crystal lost properties.

On january 4, the Eaton Fire started in the foothills and quickly grew out of control, fueled by 50+ mph winds. Thousands ordered to leave, including families with children attending local schools. Two firefighters were killed trying to contain the blaze. 

California is fighting numerous wildfires, including one in Riverside County that has burned thousands of acres and prompted evacuation orders. PHOTO: AFP

January 6, the Hurst Fire in Malibu became the third significant wildfire, threatening luxury homes and natural preserves. The fire engulfed entire neighborhoods, including Paris Hilton’s residence.

January 8-12, High winds returned, spreading embers and causing fires to merge in some areas. The Palisades and Eaton Fires combined to create a "megafire," stretching across 25,000 acres. Roads were closed, schools suspended, and thousands remained displaced. Smoke and ash created hazardous air conditions across Southern California.

Firefighters were able to gain partial control of some fires, aided by cooler weather and reduced winds. The Palisades Fire was 40% contained; the Eaton Fire was 35% contained. Emergency shelters housed over 15,000 displaced residents.

As of today, firefighting efforts are ongoing.

 

 

 

 

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Firefighters have made significant gains, with containment levels at 65% for the Palisades Fire, 60% for the Eaton Fire, and 50% for the Hurst Fire. While some areas have lifted evacuation orders, over 20,000 residents remain unable to return home.

However, despite the effort the disaster has already resulted in 25 confirmed fatalities, with over 12,000 homes, businesses, and public buildings affected, and estimated costs now exceeding $200 billion.

The wildfires have also caused devastation for several celebrities. Billy Crystal lost his home of 46 years in Pacific Palisades, while Paris Hilton's Malibu residence was destroyed.

Eugene Levy, known for "Schitt's Creek," had his home incinerated, and Mandy Moore was forced to evacuate her house near the Eaton Fire, with her children’s school and favorite restaurants also destroyed.

Photo: Reuters

Ricki Lake lost her "dream home" in the flames, and Anna Faris, impacted by the Palisades Fire, confirmed that while her home was affected, she and her family are safe.

Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag also suffered the loss of their home and Pratt's parents' house in the Palisades Fire. Additionally, James Woods revealed that his home was among those burned in the devastating fires.

The situation remains critical as firefighters continue to battle the blazes, with high winds and dry conditions complicating containment efforts. Evacuation orders are in place for tens of thousands of residents, and the community is rallying to support those affected by this unprecedented disaster.