Los Angeles: Two major wildfires in the Los Angeles area have claimed at least 10 lives and destroyed around 10,000 homes and structures, with a third fire forcing the evacuation of thousands more residents.
The Kenneth fire, which erupted in West Hills on Thursday 9th of January, comes as crews continue to battle the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have already scorched over 30,000 acres and destroyed more than 5,000 structures in each of the affected areas.
Nearly 180,000 people are under evacuation orders, with another 200,000 facing warnings to leave. Over 285,000 residents are without electricity, and critical water and sewage infrastructure has suffered extensive damage.
The fires have wreaked havoc in Malibu and Pacific Palisades, with neighbourhoods reduced to ash, including luxury areas where even chimneys are the only remnants of homes.
First responders are rapidly responding to the #KennethFire — transporting water from Pepperdine University's Recycled Water Irrigation Reservoir via helicopter to firefighters on the ground in Calabasas.
Multiple water refills in just a matter of minutes. pic.twitter.com/9LqPXSXbVZ
— Governor Newsom (@CAgovernor) January 10, 2025
Celebrity residents such as James Woods, Paris Hilton, and Billy Crystal are among those who have lost their properties. Wind speeds exceeding 70 mph have exacerbated the fire’s spread, and the National Weather Service has warned of further gusts.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fires, though lightning—typically the most common cause—is not suspected in this case. Investigations are ongoing, and while intentional fires and power lines remain potential sources, no lightning strikes were reported in the area at the time of ignition.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed the state’s National Guard to assist in recovery efforts and to help prevent looting.
President Joe Biden has pledged full federal support for California’s recovery efforts, covering all associated costs for the next 180 days.
Biden emphasized the importance of bipartisan support for the state’s recovery, urging Congress to avoid politicizing the disaster aid process.
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