Posted originally on the CTH on January 11, 2025 | Sundance 

According to recent media reports, “as of Saturday morning, the Palisades fire, at 21,596 acres, was 11% contained and the Eaton fire, at 14,117 acres, was 15% contained, according to Cal Fire.”  The fire outlook for Saturday is back at the “Critical” level for much of southern California as dry, gusty winds fan the flames. Winds are expected to pick up later Saturday into the night, raising the fire danger yet again.

Approximately 7,000 structures have been destroyed in the Eaton Fire, authorities said at a press conference today. The Palisades Fire has destroyed more than 5,000 structures, according to an early morning update from the Los Angeles Fire Department.

CALIFORNIA – The Palisades and Eaton wildfires have killed at least 11 people and destroyed some 12,000 structures as of Friday. Evacuation orders have been lifted in some areas as firefighters make progress on the Kenneth, Hurst and Lidia fires. 

The exact causes of the fires remain under investigation, but they were fueled by extreme gusts from the Santa Ana winds. Winds  Forecasters warn they could pick back up later this weekend. 

Officials have identified the origin of the Palisades blaze fire behind a home on Piedra Morada Drive, which sits above a densely wooded arroyo. (more)

• • Five devastating wind-fed fires have killed at least 11 people and swept through 39,000 acres in the greater Los Angeles area, destroying entire communities and more than 12,000 structures.
  • Evacuation orders for the largest blaze, the Palisades Fire, have expanded as it sweeps east and threatens Brentwood and Encino. It is 11% contained.
  • At least 153,000 L.A. residents were under evacuation orders overnight. A map of the evacuation zone is here.

• • Gov. Gavin Newsom called for an independent investigation into the loss of water pressure to local fire hydrants and the reported unavailability of water supplies from the Santa Ynez Reservoir.
  • Los Angeles County declared a public health emergency, warning that smoke and particulate matter could pose immediate and long-term threats. The full warning and list of recommendations can be found here.