Lasting impacts on a community

On January 7, 2025, fires broke out in Los Angeles’ Pacific Palisades neighborhood and in Eaton engulfing most of Los Angeles and several surrounding areas. Over 15,000 people were ordered to evacuate due to the fast-moving fires. It is still unknown what caused the initial fire, but it is known what caused it to spread. 

In nine months, Southern California got only a half inch of rain which put parts of the area in a severe drought. California has been facing a precipitation deficit for over a decade, but until now, they had enough rainfall to keep them out of severe drought for extended periods. California is in its rainy season but has yet to see significant rainfall. With all the dried-out vegetation and lack of moisture, once a fire started it kept spreading. 

Wind also contributed greatly to the spread of the fire, with wind speeds being upward of 16 miles per hour (mph) and wind gusts reaching 35 mph, according to the Los Angeles Weather History. The wind carried the fire along, spreading it faster than it could be put out. The wind also made it nearly impossible for firefighters to drop water on the fires, as it whisked it away before it was able to hit the fire. Fortunately, wind speeds slowed, making it easier for firefighters to contain and put out the fires. Firefighters were eventually able to get 40,000 acres of fire under control in the Santa Ana area. 

Fortunately, Los Angeles firefighters have been able to fully contain the fire, and rainfall is set to hit the area. However, heavy rainfall could cause flash flooding due to lack of previous moisture in the ground causing the ground to not be able to absorb the water fast enough. 

The fires killed 29 people, but with over 12,000 structures destroyed for 60 square miles and at least 18 missing people reported, the death count could still rise. As the fires are contained, more and more structures will be explored for possible victims. 

Governor Newsom of California is providing around $2.5 billion for rescue and response efforts and to help start the rebuilding process. The money will also go towards building temporary housing for those who lost their homes. Tax relief is being provided for those who were impacted by the fires. California’s State legislature is also trying to pass a bill that would give the impacted a year of mortgage relief. 

The blazes are currently contained from spreading, but changes occur daily. If you are interested in updates stay in check with your local news.