Dangerous wind conditions forecast to return next week

AccuWeather meteorologists have warned that another Santa Ana wind event could hit next week, posing another extreme fire risk.

Wind gusts of 40-60 mph are forecast starting Monday through Tuesday night, with an AccuWeather Local StormMax of 85 mph.

Evacuation warning mistakenly sent to residents across Los Angeles

An evacuation warning was mistakenly sent out to residents across Los Angeles on Thursday afternoon.

Residents reported receiving the warning alert on their phones, which told them to prepare to leave their area immediately if the wildfires got closer.

A short time later, residents received another message telling them to ignore the warning.

"Disregard last EVACUATION WARNING," the second message read. The message also indicated the first warning was intended for those affected by the Kenneth Fire.

How the Los Angeles fires damages compare with other disasters

This week's southern California wildfires is the latest multi-billion-dollar natural disaster to hit the United States in recent years.

The SoCal fires will eclipse the damages suffered in the 2023 Maui Fires, and looks set to surpass the damages from the Western U.S. Wildfire Season 2018.

However, so far, it remains far behind the devastation left by Hurricane Helene or 2020's Western U.S. Wildfire Season.

"Many parts of the world face serious impacts and threats from our warming climate and changes to extreme weather patterns. California is on the forefront of climate change in the United States, and this tragic disaster is the latest in a devastating series of extreme weather events resulting in multi-billion-dollar disasters," AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter told Newsweek.

New wildfire, 'Kenneth', breaks out in Ventura

A new wildfire has erupted near the Hidden Hill area in Los Angeles.

The Kenneth Fire has rapidly grown to cover 50 acres since it broke out this evening.

Evacuation orders are now in place for the area of Van Owen, Burbank, Valley Circle, and more.

Evacuation orders have been issued for zones:

WTH-U031, CAL-C401, CAL-C402, CAL-C403, CSB-U024, HID-C501, HID-C502, MTV-U025

Evacuation warnings have been issued for:

• Kenneth - Zone1
• LA County/City - Ingomar St / Saticoy St south to Burbank Blvd Valley Circle Blvd east to Woodlake Ave
• Ventura - Kenneth - Zone1 (Oak Park area near Kanan Road and Agoura Road, east of Kanan Road to Deer Hill)

Wildfire damages rise to estimated $150 billion

California's wildfires are set to become one of the costliest in modern U.S. history, as AccuWeather raises its damage estimate to $135-$150 billion.

"The devastation left behind is heartbreaking and the economic toll is staggering," AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter told Newsweek.

"To put this into perspective, the total damage and economic loss from this wildfire disaster could reach nearly 4 percent of the annual GDP of the state of California."

"These fast-moving, wind-driven infernos have created one of the costliest wildfire disasters in modern U.S. history."

AccuWeather have warned thar their estimate could increase further as the fires rage on.

What have LA officials said about looters?

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger told reporters Thursday that looting during this emergency is "unacceptable."

"I promise you, you will be held accountable. Shame on those who are preying on our residents during this time of crisis," she said.

District Attorney of Los Angeles County Nathan Hochman said in a video message to looter posted to X, "Let me make it quite clear what's going to happen: The DA's office, working with law enforcement, is going to arrest you, they're going to prosecute you, and you will be punished to the full extent of the law. That's a promise."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass stayed silent Thursday when questioned by a Sky News reporter about her initial absence as wildfires raged across her jurisdiction. Bass had been visiting Ghana when the flames started on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Bass said during a press conference that she took the "fastest route back" to California with the help of a military plane.

"I took the fastest route back, which included being on a military plane, which facilitated our communications," Bass said. "So I was able to be on the phone the entire time of the flight."

California residents won't evacuate wildfires because of looters: 'Wild west'

Some Southern California residents are refusing to leave their homes amid the ongoing wildfires due to looting in the fiery Los Angeles area.

Newsweek has contacted the LAPD and LA County Sheriff's Office by email for comment.

Local news station KCAL reported Wednesday that multiple residents told reporters that they're worried about evacuating their homes due to the flames, but also due to looters reported to be taking items from the affluent neighborhoods.

Reporting from damage from the Eaton fire, reporter Haley Winslow said Wednesday, "It has turned into the wild wild west here. It is just complete insanity on all corners.

"Police are doing the best they can, They're seeing looters walking down the street with large TVs just taking advantage of what little this town has left," Winslow said.

Read in full from Erin Keller on Newsweek.

LA residents must not return home until evacuation order is lifted, Pasadena mayor says

Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo warned residents not to return to their homes under the evacuation orders are officially lifted.

Around 180,000 people are under active evacuation orders across Los Angeles.

"We're starting to see people go back in those areas and our message to you is: stay out of those areas until you hear officially that the orders have been lifted," Gordo said on Thursday.

Map reveals where air quality is the worst in LA following multiple fires

A map from AirNow suggests that the air quality around Los Angeles and Anaheim, California, is unhealthy as the Palisades fire continues to burn in Los Angeles County.

The AQI measures air quality on a scale from 0 to 500, with readings below 50 considered "Good" and above 300 classified as "Hazardous," signaling emergency conditions where health risks are elevated for everyone. Residents in affected areas have been advised to stay indoors.

As of 2 p.m. EST, around Los Angeles, to Redondo Beach and from El Monte through Playa Visit, the air conditions are "unhealthy," which ranges from an AQI of 151 to 200, according to AirNow. Around that area, past Santa Monica and growing toward Long Beach and Topanga, AirNow calls the region "unhealthy for sensitive groups," with an AQI of 101 to 150.

Images of the area show scorched earth and smoldering terrain across Los Angeles County. Plumes of smoke hover over neighborhoods.

The Palisades fire has triggered hazardous air quality in multiple counties across California. According to the U.S. AQI, Los Angeles County recorded levels of 178, while San Bernardino County reached 196. Fresno and Imperial counties registered levels of 127.

Fact Check: Videos of cat rescued amid California Wildfire are misleading

Harrowing videos of the California wildfires, which have killed at least five and forced thousands from their homes, have flooded news and social media across the globe as authorities struggle to contain the flames.

Multiple posts on X, formerly Twitter, included a video that appeared to be from the California wildfires, showing firefighters handing a resident a cat as emergency services attempted to put out a blaze.

A post by the account Media Insider, posted on January 8, 2024, included the video with the message: "This man's house caught fire and he lost everything, but the firefighters managed to rescue his cat."

The Facts

Mislabeled or misleading content often spreads quickly in light of disasters, whether intentional or not. This clip of a resident running from a home with a cat, bathing it, and providing it water as they lay on the sidewalk is one such example.

While the video was recorded in Los Angeles, the footage is from last year and is unrelated to wildfires. As reported by NBC4 News, homeowner Isaac Vaizman said he pleaded with firefighters to save his cat as his house in Tarzana caught fire.

Read in full from Tom Norton on Newsweek.

LA County calls for National Guard to help tackle fires

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said his department has "officially requested the support of the California National Guard" to help battle the raging wildfires.

Biden says federal government will cover 100% of disaster assistance

President Biden pledged that the federal government will cover 100% of disaster assistance costs, on Thursday.

"We're not going anywhere': Biden said, during an address from the White House.

"I told the governor and local officials, spare no expense to contain these fires," he added.

"We're doing literally everything we can at the federal level."

The funding will cover the cost of first responder salaries, as well as paying for the removal of debris and hazardous materials.

5,000 structures potentially destroyed in Eaton Fire, fire chief says

The Eaton Fire has potentially destroyed up to 5,000 structures, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said at a press conference.

Those structures include residential homes, commercial buildings and vehicles, according he said.

The number has risen sharply since the 1,000 reported damaged or destroyed earlier today.

Gigi Hadid's childhood home burns down amid L.A. wildfires

As the Los Angeles wildfires continue to rage on with mandatory evacuations taking place, the home where Gigi Hadid and her siblings were raised by their mother, Yolanda Hadid, was burned to the ground.

The mansion, which was located in Malibu and was once owned by Yolanda, was also known as the Carbon Canyon Estate. Yolanda, 60, and her then boyfriend, producer David Foster, purchased the house in 2007 for $4.5 million and renovated it for two years to suit their needs according to Daily Mail. They pair ended up marrying in 2011.

The six-bedroom and 11-bathroom mansion was heavily featured in a number of episodes of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, which Yolanda starred in through the years. After the couple announced that they were getting a divorce in 2015, Yolanda sold the childhood home of her children Gigi, 29, Bella, 28, and Anwar, 25, in 2015 after eight years of living there.

Read in full from Mauricio Viladegutt on Newsweek.

Hundreds of inmates brought in to help battle wildfires

Hundreds of inmates from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) have been brought in to join the 1,400 firefighters battling the multiple blazes across L.A.

"As of today, 783 Fire Camp firefighters (inmates) have been working around the clock cutting fire lines and removing fuel from behind structures to slow fire spread, including 88 support staff," a CDCR spokesperson told Newsweek.

Inmates get paid between $5.80 and $10.24 per day in the voluntary CDCR Fire Camp program.

"CDCR Fire Camp Program firefighters are proud to be embedded with CAL FIRE personnel to protect lives, property, and natural resources in Southern California," the spokesperson added.

Karen Bass Has Tense Exchange With Reporter Over Wildfires: 'Let Me Finish'

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass had a tense exchange with a reporter during a press conference on Thursday over her "lack of preparation" before the city was hit with a series of devastating wildfires.

Bass, a Democrat, has faced heavy criticism for her actions preceding the fire and for a Los Angeles Fire Department budget decrease. The mayor on Wednesday returned to Los Angeles from a trip to Ghana, despite warnings about expected high winds in the area causing increased fire risks days earlier.

During a press conference on Thursday morning, CBS News reporter Jonathan Vigliotti described witnessing the early stages of the Palisades fire without seeing "a single fire engine" in the area before pointing out that Bass was out of the country at the time and asking her "what explains" the "lack of preparation and rapid response."

"Let me just say, first and foremost, my number one focus and I think the focus of all of us here—with one voice—is that we have to protect lives, we have to save lives and we have to save homes," Bass responded. "Rest assured..."

Vigliotti interjected by saying "but that did not happen," prompting Bass to cut him off, wag her finger and continue speaking in response.

Read in full from Alia Slisco on Newsweek.

'LA underinvested in water infrastructure for decades,' says expert

Firefighters battling the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles history have been hampered by dwindling water supplies and reports of fire hydrants running dry.

But an expert on water supply issues and the impacts of climate change, told Newsweek that California were in fact fuller than average for this time of year.

The lack of available water was down to poor infrastructure in L.A. itself, Kurt Schwabe, Ph.D. Professor of Environmental Economics and Policy School of Public Policy University of California-Riverside, told Newsweek.

"Overall the water supply situation in California, in terms of the amount of water we have in our reservoirs, are all significantly above average aside from one. So what going on right now, it's a regional or a statewide water scarcity issue, a local infrastructure water supply issue," he said.

"There's been a significant underinvestment in infrastructure in water in Los Angeles for decades now."

He added that experts had been warning that Los Angeles needed to update its infrastructure for decades, but officials have been slow to act.

California 'dead zones' likely as insurance set to soar after wildfires

California may get residential "dead zones" in the wake of the wildfires, an expert has warned.

Fire and home insurance is set to soar in the wake of the fires, with analysts estimating a 40% rise, with some fire-prone areas set to see increases of 100% or more.

Kurt Schwabe, Ph.D. Professor of Environmental Economics and Policy School of Public Policy University of California-Riverside, warned that with the increased risks and costs involved, home builders and home owners start to reconsider where want to rebuild.

"I imagine you are going to see more vacant or dead zones as the cost of insurance goes up and becomes less subsidized," Schwabe told Newsweek.

Worst may be yet to come for California, expert warns

The devastating wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles this week have left at least five dead, forced 130,000 residents to evacuate, and destroyed more than 2,000 homes and business.

But even after the fires are over, Californians may been for more misery, Kurt Schwabe, Ph.D. Professor of Environmental Economics and Policy School of Public Policy University of California-Riverside, warned.

Schwabe said that, because the fires have destroyed a significant acreage of trees and forest, when the rains finally do come, there will be little vegetation there to absorb them so "significant flooding" is expected.

"It could have a larger impact than the fires," Schwabe told Newsweek, adding the flood water could also affect Los Angeles drinking water.

Wildfires death toll rises to 6

The Los Angeles wildfires death toll has risen to 6, after human remains were found in a Malibu home destroyed by the Palisades Fire.

Five deaths were reported in the Eaton Fire, near Altadena in Los Angeles, yesterday.

In the latest case, a missing persons report led authorities to check the Malibu home, near Pacific Coast Highway.

When deputies arrived, they found only a brick chimney was left standing.

Officials believe the death toll is expected to rise further.

"At one point, we'll be able to do a more thorough search of these impacted areas, some of them look like a bomb was dropped in them, where we will be able to bring in canines and other things to help us," Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said at a press conference.

"Unfortunately, based on the preliminary information I've seen, at least in the two large fires that we're dealing with on each side of the county, unfortunately, I think the death toll will rise."

Key safety tips for wildfire evacuations: If you are trapped

If you're unable to evacuate or become trapped, stay calm and call 911.

Torres advises, "Realize where you are, what street you are at. Can you see an address sign? Call 911, so we can get resources out to you to try to find you."

Sometimes, during evacuation, people lose sight of the fire due to smoke, making it difficult to pinpoint their location.

An intersection or landmark can help emergency responders identify where you are and assess whether you're in immediate danger.

If it's safe to move, Torres recommends walking to a safer location and staying on a main route whenever possible.

Key safety tips for wildfire evacuations: Don't Wait—Evacuate

Even if you haven't prepared a go bag or wildfire action plan, Jesse Torres, a battalion chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), stresses the importance of leaving as soon as you sense danger.

"Just get out of those warning- and evacuation order-zones. If you have family on the other side of the county, go to the other side of the county," he said.

Wildfires can spread quickly, especially in high winds. Thick smoke, downed power lines, abandoned cars, and heavy traffic can also impede escape routes.

Key safety tips for wildfire evacuations: Protect your home, if possible

If there's time before leaving, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends taking steps to protect your home. This includes:

• Connecting hoses and filling containers like garbage cans, tubs, or pools with water to assist firefighters
• Closing all windows and vents
• Shutting off the gas and power to the home, if it's safe to do so

Jesse Torres, a battalion chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), adds that closing doors and windows can help prevent embers from entering the house and causing a fire.

Key safety tips for wildfire evacuations: Pack a 'go bag'

A pre-packed emergency kit, or "go bag," can save critical time when evacuation is necessary. A go bag should include:

• A map with at least two evacuation routes
• Prescriptions and medical supplies
• Extra car keys, cash, and credit cards
• A basic first-aid kit
• A flashlight, batteries, and a battery-powered radio
• Copies of important documents, like passports
• A three-day supply of food and water per person
• Supplies for pets
• N95 masks and extra phone chargers

"Plan like you're going on a trip for seven days," Jesse Torres, a battalion chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), said. "You might end up in an evacuation center, or you might end up with family, so be prepared."

Key safety tips for wildfire evacuations: Create an Emergency Action Plan

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends that households develop personalized emergency plans. These plans should include:

• A designated meeting point outside the danger zone
• Multiple escape routes
• Arrangements for family members with medical needs or disabilities
• Provisions for pets and livestock
• A communication strategy with a contact outside the area

Key safety tips for wildfire evacuations: Sign Up for Alert Systems

Many regions, particularly in California, have local alert systems that provide real-time notifications via phone or email.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers an app with live alerts, and public safety agencies use the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System to send messages through television, radio, and wireless devices.

A portable battery- or crank-operated radio is another valuable tool for receiving emergency information, especially in areas with unreliable cellular service.

Wildfire evacuations: What to know

Most people will find evacuating during a wildfire an overwhelming experience, but experts say proper preparation and awareness can significantly enhance safety.

Jesse Torres, a battalion chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), stresses the importance of planning ahead, packing an emergency "go bag," and staying alert during evacuations.

The most crucial advice, Torres says, is to leave early—before an official evacuation order is issued.

He said: "The biggest thing is to get out early, before the notifications come out. It's so important to avoid the congestion."

Read in full from Shamim Chowdhury on Newsweek.

Trump takes another shot at Newsom

President-elect Donald Trump has taken another shot at California Governor Gavin Newson.

Trump urged, in a post on Truth Social, Newsome to open up a "water main, and let the water flow into his dry, starving, burning State."

"NO MORE EXCUSES FROM THIS INCOMPETENT GOVERNOR. IT'S ALREADY FAR TOO LATE!"

It's the second time Trump ahs criticized the governor and his handing over water resources in the state.

On Wednesday, he claimed Newsom's failure to sign what he called a "water restoration declaration" had led to the "ultimate price...being paid."

Newsom's office responded: "There is no such document as the water restoration declaration – that is pure fiction. The Governor is focused on protecting people, not playing politics, and making sure firefighters have all the resources they need."

Newsweek examined both sides of the argument. While the "declaration" Trump refers to does not exist by that name, there have been actions and counteractions between Trump and Newsom's offices over water policy.

What damages does fire insurance cover?

Most standard homeowner insurance policies cover fire damages, including those caused by wildfires, according to Bankrate. In the case of wildfires, dwelling coverage will cover the cost of rebuilding the physical structure of the home and replacing any damaged parts.

However, wildfire damage may not be included for residents who live in high-risk areas. California's FAIR Plan offers the Golden State's property owners in high-risk zones an option for coverage–though it is often more expensive than the traditional market.

Under a new regulation passed in December last year, insurance companies in California will be required to offer coverage to homeowners in wildfire-prone areas. The move is an attempt to prevent insurers from cutting coverage in the most at-risk zones in the state.

LA County detention facilities unaffected by wildfires, contingency plans in place

No Los Angeles County custody facilities are currently threatened by the ongoing wildfires, according to Paula Tokar, assistant sheriff for custody relations with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD). The seven detention centers, which collectively house 12,765 inmates, are made of solid concrete and surrounded by "safe zones" to minimize risk, Tokar told Newsweek via phone call on Thursday.

"We do have those plans in place, and we're ready in case of an emergency," Tokar said, emphasizing that contingency plans exist should the situation change.

These include relocating inmates to other facilities within the county or coordinating with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation or other law enforcement agencies.

While the custody facilities remain secure, Tokar noted that some sheriff's department employees at a substation in Altadena were briefly relocated to another station as a precaution.

Best Friends Animal Society steps up during LA wildfires, seeks community support

Best Friends Animal Society in West Los Angeles is balancing a dual mission during the ongoing wildfires: supporting local animal welfare organizations while ensuring the safety of their own pets and staff. The organization is both providing aid to others and preparing for potential evacuations "for the first time in recent memory," according to spokesperson Erinn O'Connor.

To help free up space for displaced pets, Best Friends recently took in 17 cats and dogs from Pasadena Humane, allowing that shelter to house pets from families under evacuation orders. On Thursday morning, 33 animals, including those from Pasadena Humane, were transported to Best Friends' Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. There, the pets will either stay temporarily or move on to Best Friends' Lifesaving Center in Salt Lake City while awaiting adoption, O'Connor shared with Newsweek in an email.

Best Friends also celebrated significant progress locally, with 11 pets adopted and 40 placed in foster homes in a single day. "These incredible numbers show the dedication of Angelenos to step up for their community," said O'Connor.

Newsweek spoke to Erinn O'Connor, a spokesperson for Best Friends Pet Adoption Center, who highlighted the importance of fostering and adopting during this critical time. "Every pet taken in by a family opens up a space for another animal in need," O'Connor said via email.

To support displaced pets and their families, Best Friends has opened two pet pantries stocked with food, litter, collars, and leashes:

• Best Friends Pet Adoption Center - 1845 Pontius Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025
• Best Friends Clinic - 17411 Chatsworth St, Suite #100, Granada Hills, CA 91344

The pantries are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with no appointment required.

Best Friends is also calling for temporary foster families to house pets until the wildfires are under control. Those interested can email FosterLA@bestfriends.org. Donations of supplies can be made via the organization's Amazon Wishlist.

For additional updates on Best Friends Animal Society's wildfire response, visit their website.

Wildfires leave Los Angeles animals in peril as shelters near capacity

The wildfires raging across Los Angeles County since Tuesday morning, which have claimed five lives and forced tens of thousands to evacuate, are also wreaking havoc on the area's animal population. While many pet owners have evacuated with their animals, hundreds of pets have been left behind, overwhelming the city's network of rescues and shelters.

Newsweek spoke to Christopher Balles, a spokesperson from Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control, who confirmed that the agency is nearing capacity for small animals as it works tirelessly to provide care and shelter.

"Operations are still running, however," Balles told Newsweek in a phone call on Thursday afternoon, "so we're still doing adoptions. That would relieve some of the overflow for the evacuated areas so we still encourage our community to come, those who are not affected, to come see if they can adopt."

Balles added that LA County Animal Care and Control is reaching out to constituents regarding the fostering of some of the animals so help open up some space for additional displaced animals.

"We're asking the community to help at all levels," Balles said. "Our volunteer base is exceptional, so we have around-the-clock care for all of the horses that are in our care. It's a good collaborative effort from our department and our volunteers."

The center is actively looking for donations and support from the community during these trying times. Donations can be made via the Animal Care Foundation website, which will support the pets in the center's care.

Communications infrastructure burns at Mount Wilson during Eaton fire

The Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County has caused significant damage to critical communications infrastructure at Mount Wilson, a hub for broadcasting and telecommunications.

Mount Wilson is home to numerous radio, television, and emergency communications towers that serve millions across Southern California.

Map shows Kamala Harris' California home surrounded by wildfires

Vice President Kamala Harris' Los Angeles home was placed under an evacuation order Tuesday night, her press secretary confirmed, as the Palisades fire blazed through acres of the city.

Approximately 130,000 Los Angeles residents are under evacuation orders and while the former Democratic presidential candidate owns a home in an evacuation zone, she does not reside there while in office.

Newsweek has reached out to the White House press team for comment via email on Thursday.

The Los Angeles fires have rapidly expanded, burning thousands of acres as new blazes continue to ignite. As well as the five people reported dead, hundreds of structures have been reduced to ashes, according to The Associated Press.

The Palisades fire, which is the largest of the blazes has been burning since the morning of January 7. Located in a predominantly affluent area, it has forced the evacuation of thousands, including several celebrities. Vice President Kamala Harris, who serves as second in command, would have been among them had she been residing in her home.

The fire, along with the others, has placed 130,000 people across the city under evacuation orders

Read the full story by Mandy Taheri on Newsweek.

Sunset fire fully contained after overnight firefighting efforts

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced that the Sunset fire is now 100 percent contained.

Hundreds of firefighters worked through the night to extinguish the blaze, which started Wednesday evening in Runyon Canyon and quickly spread to 43 acres.

Eaton fire nears Mount Wilson, threatening critical communication infrastructure

The Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County is rapidly advancing toward Mount Wilson, placing critical communication infrastructure at severe risk. This infrastructure supports millions across Southern California, including emergency services, television, and radio broadcasts.

Preparing for wildfires: Essential emergency tips

In the middle of these wildfires in California, it's crucial to know what's coming and prepare in advance to protect yourself and your family. The American Red Cross recommends the following:

Gather essential supplies and organize them into two kits:

• Go-Kit: Pack a 3-day supply of food, water, and medicine in a portable bag for easy transport.
• Stay-at-Home Kit: Stock up on a 2-week supply of essentials in case you need to shelter in place.

Ensure you have a month's worth of medication in a child-proof container and keep important personal, financial, and medical records safe.

Staying Connected
During a wildfire, local authorities will provide critical updates. Sign up for emergency alerts, have a backup phone charger, and keep a battery-powered radio handy to monitor weather and fire updates.

Learn Emergency Skills
Know First Aid and CPR in case of emergencies. Be prepared for power outages, and plan for your electrical needs, including medical devices and cell phones.

Health Awareness
Wildfire smoke can harm your health, so take steps to minimize exposure. Make sure you understand the risks and how to stay safe during these events.

Fire crews intensify efforts as Red Flag Warning elevates California wildfire threat

The historic wildfires raging across Southern California have already scorched over 29,000 acres this year, with 92 fires reported in just the first nine days of January, according to a CAL FIRE press release. Nearly 7,500 emergency personnel, including firefighters and law enforcement, are working alongside federal and local agencies to combat the blazes.

The Palisades Fire, the largest of the fires, has consumed 17,234 acres and remains at 0% containment. Over 1,000 structures are threatened, and evacuation orders remain in effect. The nearby Eaton Fire, which has destroyed approximately 1,000 structures in North Pasadena and Altadena, has also yet to be contained.

Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment of 140 water tenders to assist firefighting efforts, a critical resource as extreme wind gusts and dry conditions hinder progress. A Red Flag Warning remains in effect through January 10 for multiple counties, raising the fire risk further.

California wildfires destroy iconic landmarks across Los Angeles County

The wildfires ravaging Los Angeles County have destroyed or significantly damaged several iconic landmarks, leaving a lasting mark on the area's cultural and historical heritage.

Palisades Charter High School: Famous as a filming location for Brian De Palma's Carrie and other notable productions like Freaky Friday and Teen Wolf, the school sustained significant damage, though its main building remains standing. The school, established in 1961, serves around 3,000 students.

Will Rogers' Ranch House: This 1920s property, once the home of famed actor Will Rogers, was completely destroyed. Located on 186 acres in Pacific Palisades, it had been a historic state park since 1944.

Topanga Ranch Motel: Built by William Randolph Hearst in 1929, the bungalow-style motel had fallen into disrepair but was slated for restoration. It was destroyed in the fires.

Reel Inn Malibu: A beloved seafood shack established in 1986 on the Pacific Coast Highway was reduced to ashes. Owners expressed hopes for rebuilding after the fire.

The Bunny Museum: This quirky Altadena attraction, housing thousands of bunny-themed items, was also lost. Known for its unique collection, it had been featured in Ripley's Believe It Or Not! and Smithsonian Magazine.

The fires continue to threaten other landmarks in Los Angeles, though some, like the Hollywood Bowl and TCL Chinese Theatre, have escaped damage so far.

How many people are insured in areas affected by the fires?

Getting fire insurance has become more difficult in the past three years as several insurers have paused or cut coverage in parts of the state, with many citing the growing risk of wildfires as their main reason for doing so. Because of its often unpredictable wind conditions, Los Angeles is an at-risk area.

In April 2024, State Farm—one of the biggest private insurers in the state—announced that it had canceled a total of 72,000 policies in California, 30,000 of which were homes. Many of those affected lived in high-risk, upscale neighborhoods in Los Angeles County, the area now affected by the Palisades fire.

The move was justified by State Farm as an attempt to reduce the company's overall exposure after two years of devastating wildfires in 2017 and 2018, and huge losses for the insurance industry in California.

In Pacific Palisades, about 1,600 insured homes lost coverage following State Farm's decision, as reported by ABC 7.

While state law does not require California homeowners to have fire insurance, most mortgage lenders do, so it is likely that those who have obtained a loan to purchase their home have fire coverage.

Residents of high-risk areas who cannot find fire insurance in the traditional market can apply for the state's FAIR Plan, which works as an insurer of last resort. Unlike Florida's state-backed Citizens Property, California's FAIR Plan is a private association whose day-to-day operations are controlled by insurance companies and not taxpayers.

Its size has grown in recent years: while in 2020 it covered less than 3 percent of residents in the state, the insurer has more than doubled its policies since then, reaching a total of 452,000, as reported by CapRadio.

While it is likely that most homeowners in areas affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires have fire insurance, there have been reports of California homeowners going without coverage after being unable to find affordable options.

Last year, CNN reported that a family who had gone through the deadly 2018 Camp fire and moved to northern California, only to have their new home burned down by the 2024 Park fire, did not have fire insurance because they had been priced out of the market.

Economic losses from LA County wildfires near $50 billion, JPMorgan says

The ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles County have caused estimated economic losses of nearly $50 billion, doubling in just 24 hours, according to JPMorgan Chase. Insured losses are projected to exceed $20 billion, potentially making this disaster twice as costly as the 2018 Camp Fire in Butte County, which cost the insurance industry $10 billion.

The fires have already destroyed around 2,000 buildings, with close to 15,000 more at risk, according to JPMorgan's report. The Associated Press confirms the devastation, and at least five fatalities have been reported. Sheriff Robert Luna noted the final death toll remains uncertain as search and rescue operations continue.

Before and after pictures show shocking aftermath of LA wildfires

Harrowing images have captured the devastation left behind after multiple wildfires swept through Los Angeles.

Nearly 2,000 homes, businesses, and other structures have been destroyed in historically destructive fires.

In the Pacific Palisades, where a major fire has rages since Tuesday, a Bank of America was completely gutted by the blaze, leaving only its facade.

Another company in the area, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, was also left fire-ravaged by the blaze.

So far, the cost of the damages across southern California, are estimated at around $50 billion.

The truth behind Trump's 'water restoration declaration'

Gavin Newsom said Donald Trump made up the "water restoration declaration," a pact the president-elect alleges California governor "refused" to sign, claiming Newsom's refusal made the risk from wildfires, which devastating the state, even worse.

Trump said in a social media post on Wednesday that Newsom's failure to sign what he called a "water restoration declaration" had led to the "ultimate price...being paid."

"Governor Gavin Newscum refused to sign the water restoration declaration put before him that would have allowed millions of gallons of water, from excess rain and snow melt from the North, to flow daily into many parts of California, including the areas that are currently burning in a virtually apocalyptic way," Trump said.

"He wanted to protect an essentially worthless fish called a smelt, by giving it less water (it didn't work!), but didn't care about the people of California. Now the ultimate price is being paid. I will demand that this incompetent governor allow beautiful, clean, fresh water to FLOW INTO CALIFORNIA! He is the blame for this. On top of it all, no water for fire hydrants, not firefighting planes. A true disaster!"

Newsom's office said the declaration didn't exist.

How red tape strangled California forest management before LA fires

As wildfires continue to burn out of control across Los Angeles, questions have turned to why and how California authorities allowed the perfect conditions — extremely dry, uncleared forests, hillsides and brush — to proliferate during an already dangerous fire season made worse by a Santa Ana wind event that hits the area with relative frequency.

Well before those dangerous conditions aligned and sparked the massive blazes that tore through some of L.A.'s most affluent neighborhoods this week, the region was already a tinderbox due, in part, to a lack of prescribed fires.

Also known as controlled burns, those are fires intentionally set by forest managers to reduce hazardous fuels like brush, dead trees and other highly flammable materials. The main benefit of prescribed fires is to "reduce the risk of unwanted wildfires in the future," according to the Forest Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The reason California hasn't conducted more of these controlled burnings comes down to existing environmental laws in the U.S. that have posed bureaucratic obstacles to prescribed fires. It often takes years for proposals to go through reviews before any controlled burning can actually take place.

Tahra Jirari, the director of economic analysis at the the tech-aligned Chamber of Progress, told Newsweek that while there are several factors that could have mitigated the fires in Los Angeles, "if prescribed fires have been conducted at the rate they should have the damage would have been lessened."

Read in full from Katherine Fung on Newsweek.

Tonight's Lakes vs Hornets game has been postponed due to wildfires

Tonight's NBA game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Charlotte Hornets has been postponed due to wildfires, the Lakers confirmed in a statement.

"We're heartbroken for Los Angeles," the team said in statement. "Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this unimaginable situation.

"Tonight's game will be rescheduled to focus on what matters most today. We're with you L.A."

A new date for the game has not yet been confirmed.

Jamie Lee Curtis pledges $1 million for fire relief efforts

Jamie Lee Curtis has announced she is donating $1 million to the L.A. wildfire relief efforts.

In a post on Instagram, she said she was in touch with California Governor Gavin Newsom as well as other local officials, as she pledged to share updates about where others can donate or send resources.

On Wednesday, she also made a tearful appearance on "The Tonight Show" where she said that described the fire losses in her community.

"This is literally where I live, everything — the market I shop in, the schools my kids go to, friends, many, many, many, many, many friends have lost their homes now."

How contained are the Los Angeles wildfires?

Fire crews are desperately battling multiple wildfires raging across Los Angeles.

The Palisades Fire, which has surpassed 17,000 acres today, still remains at zero percent contained.

However, firefighters have started to make progress on the some of the smaller fires.

The list in full:

• Palisades Fire - 0%
• Eaton Fire - 0%
• Hurst Fire - 10%
• Lidia Fire - 40%
• Sunset - 0%

WATCH: Video shows celebrity homes destroyed by Palisades Wildfire

Several celebrities' homes have been destroyed in the wildfires spreading through Los Angeles, with videos showing the utter devastation in areas heavily populated by A-listers.

Viral footage recorded in the Pacific Palisades and Pasadena neighborhoods of Los Angeles, which are home to dozens of celebrity residences, showed extensive fire damage throughout the city, many houses reduced to nothing by the flames.

Several celebrities who live in these areas were affected by the blaze, and reported that their homes had been burnt down in the wildfires.

Reality TV star Paris Hilton said that she and her family left their home in Malibu to get to safety, only to watch it burn down on the news.

Read in full from Theo Burman on Newsweek.

'It looks apocalyptic', says LA DA

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman described the Pacific Palisades fire as looking "apocalyptic."

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Hochman said he had visited the the Palisades neighborhood where his sister and family lived, but found their home as little more than rubble.

"Up and down each one of the blocks I traveled, those houses no longer exist. They are basically rubble," Hochman said.

"It looked apocalyptic. Not since the 1990s when Los Angeles was hit with the fires, the flood, the earthquake and the riots, have I seen such disaster occur here in our city."

Wildfire losses surge to $59 billion, and it's continuing to rise

The damage caused by the California wildfires has surged to $50 billion, according to JPMorgan.

Insured losses may exceed $20 billion, and the figure is expected to rise as the report estimates around 15,000 homes and buildings at risk.

Around 2,000 structures have already been confirmed as destroyed by the Associated Press.

If estimates are correct, the insured losses would be double those of the second most expensive wildfire, the 2018 Butte County Camp fire.

CityServe responds to California wildfires with urgent relief efforts

CityServe International has launched immediate relief efforts to assist families affected by the recent wildfires in California, particularly in Los Angeles County, per a statement sent to Newsweek via email. The organization has deployed truckloads of essential supplies, including water, food, hygiene items, and clothing, to support those impacted by the fires.

"We are heartbroken by the scale of this tragedy and the lives that have been lost," said Karl Hargestam, Executive Director of CityServe Network, in the statement. "Our prayers are with the families and communities who have lost loved ones and those whose lives have been upended. We are fully committed to providing not just resources but also the compassion and hope needed to help them heal in this critical moment."

Meaning of a red flag warning

A Red Flag Warning indicates increased fire risk due to a combination of warm temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. These conditions make it easier for fires to start and spread quickly.

During such warnings, residents are advised to avoid activities that could spark a fire, such as burning without proper precautions, discarding cigarettes improperly, or leaving fires unattended.

Red Flag Warning continues in LA/Ventura counties due to Santa Ana winds

A high-end Red Flag Warning remains in effect through 6 p.m. Friday for wind-prone areas of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, due to moderate to strong Santa Ana winds and low humidity levels.

Meanwhile, all Red Flag Warnings in Santa Barbara County have expired, with no significant wind threats expected. Residents are urged to remain cautious as conditions remain favorable for wildfires.

Gov. Newsom responds to Trump's Los Angeles wildfires attack

California Gov. Gavin Newsom accuses Donald Trump of trying to "play politics" after the president-elect attacked his response to the L.A. wildfires.

"One can't even respond to it," said Newsom said on CNN today. "People are literally fleeing, people have lost their lives, kids lost their schools, families completely torn asunder, churches burned down. This guy wanted to politicize it. I have a lot of thoughts and I know what I want to say. I won't."

Newsom praised President Biden for having "the backs of every single person in this community."

"He didn't play politics, didn't try to divide any of us," the governor added.

Trump had referred to Newsom as "Newscum," and claimed he had refused to sign a water restoration that would have helped fight the fires.

118 crews deployed as power outages persist in wildfire aftermath

A total of 118 crews are currently deployed to address the aftermath of the ongoing wildfires, with downed power lines being a top priority, according to Janisse Quiñones, CEO and chief engineer of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.

Quiñones urged residents to call 911 if they encounter any downed wires, as crews are ready to respond and ensure safety. She also noted that some customers may experience extended power outages due to damage to power equipment caused by the fires.

US Olympic swimmer says he lost his medals and his home in Palisades Fire

U.S. Olympic swimmer Gary Hall Jr., who has won 10 Olympic medals and six world championship medals during his career, says he fears he's lost them all in the Palisades Fire.

"It was worse than any apocalypse movie you've ever seen and 1,000 times worse," he told the Sydney Morning Herald.

A GoFundMe, set up for Hall, states he "lost his home and his livelihood in the devastating Palisades Fire on January 7."

"Gary saw flames out his window while he was at home before collecting his dog, Puddles, his insulin, a painting of his grandfather, and a religious wooden piece his daughter Gigi gave him and drove towards the ocean as quickly as possible.

"He was forced to leave behind everything else he owned, such as irreplaceable family heirlooms, photos, and more. He has also most likely lost his ten Olympic medals, but nothing can take away his spirit that won those medals."

Arson investigators probe cause of Palisades fire

Arson investigators are actively looking into the cause of the devastating Palisades Fire, according to Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley. A team of 21 officials, including 16 arson investigators and a dog trained to detect fire accelerants, is investigating the blaze, per CNN.

The fire, which started around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, has scorched approximately 17,234 acres and caused significant damage to thousands of structures.

Preliminary reports suggest widespread destruction, though the full extent is still being assessed.

California residents without fire insurance lose everything

Golden State residents who did not get homeowners insurance renewed in the past year and did not manage to find an affordable replacement policy stand to lose everything to the wildfires wreaking havoc through Southern California.

Last year, several insurers cut coverage across the state due to the increasing risk of paying enormous, unsustainable damages outweighing their profits. Some of the homeowners who were suddenly left without coverage in an increasingly difficult environment were in Pacific Palisades, the area that has been ravaged by flames in the past few days.

The state's wildfires have become more devastating and unpredictable in recent years, with multiple studies finding that there's a link between more severe, more frequent blazes and global warming.

Read the full story by Giulia Carbonaro on Newsweek.

Los Angeles County public works director warns of extensive fire damage

The Los Angeles County sewer, power, and transportation systems have suffered significant damage due to the ongoing fire, according to Public Works Director Mark Pestrella, per CNN.

He explained that the combined heat from the fire and strong winds knocked down thousands of trees, creating hazardous debris across the affected areas. Pestrella emphasized the danger of this debris, urging residents not to touch or attempt to remove it themselves.

Officials are coordinating with the city of Los Angeles to develop a safe process for removing the debris, which may be toxic.

CAL FIRE deploys helicopters to battle wildfires overnight

CAL FIRE Incident Commander Jim Hudson confirmed that the department was able to deploy seven helicopters for water-dropping operations overnight in response to the ongoing wildfires, according to CNN.

"We had helicopter water dropping, helicopters up, working all night," Hudson said. Despite early challenges with aircraft safety and effectiveness, the situation improved as winds died down, allowing more air resources to be used.

The use of aerial supervision and intelligence platforms also contributed to the effort, providing additional support as the fire response continued.

Officials uncertain of death toll in Los Angeles County wildfires

As the wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles County, officials have not yet determined the total number of fatalities, though the devastation is described as overwhelming.

Sheriff Robert Luna expressed concerns about the extent of the destruction, noting that some areas appear to have been hit as though a bomb had been dropped.

"At one point, we'll be able to do a more thorough search," he said, acknowledging the uncertainty of the final death toll. Luna confirmed that the sheriff's department is collaborating with the coroner's office to determine the full extent of the loss.

L.A. county sheriff describes situation around Eaton fire as 'very fluid'

L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna described the situation surrounding the Eaton Fire, the second-largest active wildfire in the area, as "very fluid" during a Wednesday morning press conference. An additional update was scheduled for 8 a.m. Thursday.

As of Thursday at 4 a.m., mandatory evacuation orders were in effect for the following areas, though the total number of evacuees remains unclear.:

• East of Altadena Drive
• Kinneloa Canyon Road
• Outpost Lane
• Glen Springs
• Coolidge
• Miranda
• Roosevelt
• Veranda
• Kenclare
• Foxridge
• Canyon Close
• Grand Oak
• North of New York Drive
• East of Altadena Drive
• West of Sierra Madre Villa Avenue
• North of Sierra Madre
• East of Allen
• West of Santa Anita Drive
• In Arcadia – North of Orange Grove/Rosemead Boulevard; East of Lake Avenue; West of Michillinda Avenue

Eaton fire scorches over 10,000 acres, claims five lives with 0% containment

The Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County continues to rage with no containment as of Thursday morning, having scorched over 10,000 acres and claimed five lives.

According to Cal Fire, the fire, which broke out Tuesday evening near Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive in Altadena, has destroyed 972 structures as of the latest report, although the exact number of homes and businesses affected remains unclear. Over 700 firefighters are working to combat the blaze, with 79 engines and nine specialized crews on the ground.

The devastation comes as the fire moves eastward, threatening more communities in the region.

Uber and Lyft offer discounts for evacuees in Los Angeles County

In response to the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles County, both Uber and Lyft are providing discounted rides to evacuation shelters.

Uber is offering evacuees a promo code, WILDFIRE25, which provides a $40 discount for each of two rides to designated evacuation shelters. The code is valid through January 15. Riders can find instructions for applying the promo code through Uber's platform.

Meanwhile, Lyft is offering a $25 voucher for up to two rides, totaling $50, using the code CAFIERERELIEF2. However, this offer is limited to the first 500 riders and must be used before midnight on January 15.

Both services aim to support those affected by the wildfires by ensuring safe transportation to emergency shelters.

Thousands of structures destroyed in Palisades Fire, LAFD reports

The Los Angeles Fire Department has confirmed preliminary reports indicating that "thousands" of structures have been destroyed in the ongoing Palisades Fire, Stephanie Myers reported via X.

The devastating blaze continues to impact the area, with officials monitoring the situation closely.

LA officials slam looters, and warns 'you will be held accountable'

Kathryn Ann Barger-Leibrich, a member of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for the 5th District, said at a press conference today that 20 people had been arrested for "preying" on the community in its time of crisis.

"In the midst of the emergency we've all seen individuals targeting vulnerable communities by burglarizing and looting homes.

"This is simply unacceptable.

"I promise you, you will be held accountable. Shame on those who are preying on our residents in this time of crisis."

20 arrested for looting during fires, says L.A. County Supervisor Barger

During the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles County, Sheriff's Department officials have made 20 arrests related to looting and burglary, according to Supervisor Kathryn Barger, according to The New York Times.

Evacuation orders lifted for Sunset fire area

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has announced that all evacuation orders for areas affected by the #SunsetFire will be lifted at 7:30 a.m. local time this morning. The area north of Franklin will be open for residents to return to their homes.

In a tweet, Bass urged caution, noting that the Los Angeles Fire Department crews are still working in the area. Residents are encouraged to be careful as they return, ensuring their safety while crews continue to manage the aftermath of the fire.

'Never seen that size of fire': LA residents recount harrowing scenes

As wildfires continue to sweep across Los Angeles leaving thousands of residents displaced and neighborhoods transformed into ash, residents are sharing their firsthand experiences on social media, providing a vivid and personal account of the unfolding disaster.

Three major fires are currently burning uncontrollably in the Los Angeles area, including the Palisades fire, west of Los Angeles, the Eaton fire, north of Pasadena, and the Hurst fire, in the San Fernando Valley.

Adding to the crisis, a new fire broke out Wednesday evening in the Hollywood Hills near Runyon Canyon, threatening popular tourist destinations and forcing hasty evacuations.

At least 100,000 residents are currently under evacuation orders, with the Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, and Altadena among the hardest-hit areas.

TikTok has become a platform for Los Angeles residents to share their experiences as the fires spread.

Read in full from Alice Gibbs on Newsweek.

California wildfires: How smoke harms your body

Wildfires are ablaze across California and they pose a significant threat to residents—not just because of the fire, but also due to the health impacts of breathing in smoke.

These can range from a runny nose and tickly throat all the way up to an increased risk of heart attacks and lung cancer.

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of gases and tiny particles from burning plants, trees, buildings and anything else that catches fire.

Some particulates—tiny pieces of burnt plant matter—are particularly harmful, especially when they measure 2.5 micrometers or less.

Dubbed "PM2.5", these particles are more than 30 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair and are dangerous because they can easily travel deep into the lungs, pass into the bloodstream and move into other tissues and organs elsewhere.

Apart from PM2.5, gases such as carbon monoxide can be dangerous, as can toxic compounds created from burning plastics and other non-natural materials.

Read the full story by Hatty Willmoth on Newsweek.

WATCH: Hiker describes terrifying moment he was forced to run from LA wildfire

Wildfire safety: Expert tips for preparing and evacuating

Experts say preparation and situational awareness can drastically improve safety during an evacuationm. Jesse Torres, a battalion chief for Cal Fire, stresses the importance of not waiting for evacuation orders. "Get out early, before the notifications come out," he advises, to avoid congestion and danger, per The Associated Press.

Here are key safety tips:

• Sign up for alerts: Many regions offer warning systems, such as FEMA's app or local push notifications, to keep residents informed. A battery-powered radio is also useful when cell service is unreliable.
• Create an emergency action plan: Include multiple evacuation routes, a pre-arranged meeting point, and plans for family members and pets.
• Pack a 'go bag': A pre-packed kit should include medical supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, important documents, and a three-day supply of food and water for all family members and pets.
• Protect your home if time allows: If you can, connect water hoses, fill containers with water, and close windows and vents to prevent embers from entering.
• Don't wait to evacuate: Fires can spread quickly, and delays can be deadly. If you feel unsafe, leave immediately—even without a "go bag."
• If trapped: Stay calm and call 911 with your exact location. If possible, walk to a safe area, ideally along a main route.

California considers new bill to fund wildfire recovery

California is exploring a new bill aimed at financing wildfire recovery efforts by holding corporate polluters accountable. The bill, modeled after similar legislation enacted in New York and Vermont, is designed to create a fund to help offset the immense costs of damage caused by the state's frequent wildfires.

The proposed Climate Change Superfund Act would require major corporate polluters to contribute to the fund, which targets the fossil fuel emissions driving global warming and worsening wildfire risks.

California, already spending billions annually on wildfire recovery, hopes the bill could provide a sustainable solution for the increasing devastation caused by climate change.

Palisades fire and Eaton fire burn with 0% containment, Hurst fire at 10% containment

The Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County, California, continue to burn with 0% containment, while the Hurst Fire has achieved 10% containment, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

The fires have caused significant destruction, prompting evacuation orders for thousands of residents in the affected areas.

Los Angeles school districts close as wildfires continue

Because of the five wildfires raging across the area, 16 school districts in Los Angeles County, including the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), are closed Thursday, according to the Office of Education. LAUSD, the largest school district in California and the second-largest in the nation cited unsafe conditions created by wind, fire, and smoke in a statement.

The district is evaluating whether classes will be held remotely on Friday, Jan. 10, and a decision will be made by 4 p.m. local time Thursday. Additionally, four districts—Burbank Unified, Glendale Unified, La Canada Unified, and Pasadena Unified—have already confirmed closures for Friday.

Los Angeles County has 80 public school districts, serving over 1.3 million students from elementary through high school.

Fire battalion chief compares fire conditions to hurricane as winds calm

Fire Battalion Chief Brent Pascua described the situation on the ground as "night and day" compared to the previous day, when powerful 80-mile-per-hour winds made fighting the fire feel like "being in a hurricane with fire all around you."

In an interview with CNN's Kate Bolduan, Pascua explained that the calmer conditions now provide a much-needed break for firefighters, allowing them to make progress on containment efforts.

"But now that we have our conditions back to a little more normal, I believe we're going to get a handle on this," he said.

Biden to deliver remarks about response to wildfires

President Joe Biden has said in a tweet that he will be addressing the nation in a briefing to deliver remarks about the response to the wildfires in California.

He said he would do so after President Carter's funeral service.

Follow Newsweek's live coverage of the Carter funeral.

Drone footage shows devastation from LA fires as thousands of homes are destroyed

Drone footage has captured the aftermath of the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, revealing widespread destruction.

Despite the extensive damage, firefighters have made significant progress in containing the Sunset Fire in Hollywood, preventing further destruction, per a tweet from Colin Rugg.

Caruso property remains untouched amid Palisades fire devastation

While surrounding homes and properties have been completely destroyed by the Palisades Fire, the entire Caruso property in Palisades Village has not been affected, per eyewitness video.

The fire, which has ravaged large areas of the region, spared this particular development, as neighboring structures suffered extensive damage.

FEMA begins recovery efforts for wildfire victims

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that federal teams will begin working with individuals in shelters affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. In a conversation with CNN's John Berman, Criswell explained that the recovery process will start with helping displaced residents register for assistance.

"We're going to have people now that we have the presidential disaster declaration," Criswell said. "We will start in the shelters, where we know people will be. We want to be able to start to talk to people, help them register for assistance."

FEMA teams have already been coordinating with local officials and state emergency operations in Sacramento, ensuring that necessary resources are deployed. As FEMA officials move into shelters, they will also work to reach evacuees in hotels, initiating the recovery process and providing support to those in need.

IN PICTURES: Shocking images of the wildfires and its effects in California

Have a look at the stunning images from the wildfire:

Paris Hilton: 'Heartbroken beyond words'

Paris Hilton shared a tweet last night, expressing her heartbreak after watching her home burn down due to the wildfires occurring in California.

"Heartbroken beyond words," she wrote. "Sitting with my family, watching the news, and seeing our home in Malibu burn to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience. This home was where we built so many precious memories. It's where Phoenix took his first steps and where we dreamed of building a lifetime of memories with London."

FEMA aiding wildfire survivors in Los Angeles County

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) teams are stepping in to assist families impacted by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell told CNN on Thursday.

Although official damage assessments are ongoing, Criswell estimated that hundreds of homes may have been destroyed or severely affected by smoke. The Associated Press reports that nearly 2,000 structures have been lost in the Palisades and Eaton fires.

"There are going to be many families in significant need," Criswell said, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges of recovery.

FEMA teams are stationed in Sacramento alongside state emergency operations personnel and plan to move into shelters soon to assist survivors with registering for federal relief.

Starlink aids LA wildfire response as cell service outages hit the city

As wildfires rage across Los Angeles, destroying thousands of homes and claiming five lives, much of the city is experiencing cell service outages. The damage to communication infrastructure, including cell towers and power lines, coupled with heavy network usage during the emergency, has caused widespread disruptions.

To maintain connectivity, TV crews are using SpaceX's Starlink to broadcast coverage of the fires, according to FOX11. Elon Musk has announced that SpaceX will provide free Starlink terminals to areas in Los Angeles without service.

"SpaceX will provide free Starlink terminals to affected areas in LA tomorrow morning," Musk wrote on X.

Starlink's satellite-based internet service offers a critical lifeline during disasters, ensuring communities and emergency responders can stay connected amid infrastructure failures.

National Weather Service: This is a 'particularly dangerous situation'

The National Weather Service told Newsweek in an emailed statement that the fires occurring in portions of Southern California have "set the stage for this particularly dangerous situation."

The National Weather Service continues to forecast extreme fire weather conditions today for portions of southern California, especially coastal locations in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The combination of destructive Santa Ana winds with the very dry conditions, from the lack of precipitation over the last several months and ongoing drought, has set the stage for this. Extreme fire weather threats mean the high potential for very rapid fire spread and erratic and life-threatening fire behavior with any new fire ignitions.

We urge those in southern California to follow the evolving forecast and instructions from emergency officials.

The National Weather Service Oxnard Weather Office, which provides weather forecasts for greater Los Angeles, continues to support the firefighting effort with tailored wind and weather information and briefings. We deployed a specialized Incident Meteorologist to the Palisades Fire today to provide onsite support to fire crews, emergency officials and incident command teams. Our Incident Meteorologists provide critical weather information to keep fire crews safe and help them contain wildfires.

How to help wildfire victims in Pacific Palisades while avoiding scams

The ongoing wildfire in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades has forced more than 30,000 residents to evacuate, with the fire burning over 17,200 acres. As relief efforts ramp up, many are seeking ways to support those affected. However, with this outpouring of generosity, scammers are also attempting to exploit the situation.

To make a genuine impact, consider donating to trusted organizations such as the California Fire Foundation, which supports victims, firefighters, and their families, or the Salvation Army, providing emergency shelters and financial assistance. The Red Cross and Direct Relief are offering critical aid, including medical supplies and emergency shelters. Additionally, the Wildfire Recovery Fund supports long-term recovery efforts for rebuilding communities.

For those considering GoFundMe donations, it's crucial to verify the legitimacy of campaigns to ensure funds reach those truly in need. GoFundMe provides verification tools to help donors make informed decisions.

As FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell stated, "Every disaster is an opportunity to come together as a community, but it's also when we see the worst of bad actors."

Airbnb activates refund policy for wildfire-affected areas in Los Angeles

Airbnb has implemented its "major disruptive events" policy for wildfire-impacted areas in and around Los Angeles. The policy allows hosts to cancel reservations without penalties and provides guests with full refunds if they cancel. Guests cutting trips short due to the fires may qualify for partial refunds.

Additionally, Airbnb.org, the company's nonprofit branch, is partnering with local organizations like 211 LA to offer free temporary housing for evacuees from areas such as Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Sylmar.

Other events that are blanketed under this policy include:

• Declared public health emergencies and epidemics
• Government travel restrictions
• Military actions and other hostilities
• Large-scale outages of essential utilities
• Natural disasters ("Weather or natural conditions that are common enough to be foreseeable in a given location.")

Those not covered by the policy are:

• Events that impact a guest or their ability to travel, but not the reservation location
• Unexpected injury or illness
• Government obligations like jury duty or court appearances
• Non-binding travel advisories or other government guidance that fall short of a travel ban or prohibition
• Cancellation or rescheduling of an event for which the reservation was made
• Transportation disruptions unrelated to a covered Event, such as airline insolvency, transportation strikes, and road closures due to maintenance

Biden cancels Italy trip amid California wildfire crisis

Joe Biden canceled his final overseas trip as U.S. President on Wednesday in order to oversee the federal response to the devastating wildfires currently sweeping through California.

The decision came just hours before he was set to depart for Rome and the Vatican, where he was scheduled to meet with Pope Francis, Italian leaders, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The trip was intended to be a symbolic conclusion to Biden's presidency, allowing him to strengthen ties with American allies and underscore the U.S. commitment to global partnerships as he prepares to exit the White House on January 20.

Read the full article by Shamim Chowdhury on Newsweek.

Lidia fire is 40% contained, Hurst fire is 10% contained

The only wildfires with any kind of containment are the Lidia and Hurst fires.

The former has burned about 348 acres and broke out on January 8; meanwhile, the latter has burned approximately 855 acres and began on January 7.

Palisades, Eaton and Sunset have yet to be contained and continue to grow, according to CalFire.

NFL ready to move playoff's location to Arizona

The NFL has shared a statement saying that if it is necessary, the location of Monday's playoffs, meant to take place in SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, will be moved to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona if necessary.

"We will continue to closely monitor developments in the area and will remain in contact with public officials, both clubs and the NFLPA," it wrote.

Malibu Waterfront 'has largely disappeared'

The X account SprinterObserver shared footage of what the Malibu Waterfront looks like after the fires.

"The Malibu waterfront, one of the most expensive properties in the United States, has largely disappeared," they wrote.

Natural gas suspended in Southern California,15,000 customers affected

Southern California Gas Company has suspended all natural gas service from Brentwood Country Club to Malibu.

The action left 15,000 customers affected and there may be more outages in other areas.

Watch a man be reunited with his cat after losing everything in the fires

One man's home caught on fire and lost everything, but firefighters were able to save his cat.

See the man's reaction.

NWS says more wind coming to California

The National Weather Service's forecast indicates that more wind is coming to the California area between tonight and Friday.

There are high wind warnings in effect for Santa Clarita Valley, Los Angeles County, and Ventura County.

Henry Winkler's Los Angeles fires theory goes viral

As the fires in Los Angeles continue to cause destruction, Henry Winkler has theorized that an arsonist is behind the damage being caused.

There are multiple active wildfires in and around the city, which started on Tuesday and led to the rapid evacuation of thousands of people in Southern California. These include the Palisades fire in Pacific Palisades, the Hurst fire in San Fernando Valley and the Eaton fire near Altadena. Another blaze, the Woodley fire, ignited on Wednesday alongside several smaller fires.

Firefighters and other emergency workers continue battling the fires and assisting in evacuation efforts. While the potent winds driving the fires to rapidly escalate were expected to die down by Thursday night, the initial causes of all the blazes remain under investigation.

While the cause of the fires hasn't been confirmed, this hasn't stopped the Happy Days actor from taking to X (formerly Twitter) to blame it on an arsonist. Newsweek emailed the Los Angeles Police Department and a spokesperson for Winkler for comment on Thursday.

Read the full story by Billie Schwab Dunn on Newsweek.

WATCH: Local Returns To Pacific Palisades To Find Home Destroyed By Fire

Video footage shows how a local man returned to his fire-destroyed home in Pacific Palisades.

WATCH: Studio City Home Collapse After Being Engulfed By Wildfire

A dramatic video has surfaced showing a Studio City home collapsing into flames as wildfires tear through the area.

Read in full from Martha McHardy on Newsweek.

Paris Hilton Watched Her Malibu Home 'Burn to the Ground' Amid LA Wildfires

Paris Hilton shared her emotional reaction to seeing her Malibu home consumed by flames during a live TV broadcast.

The reality TV star is among many celebrities who have lost their homes in the wildfires devastating the Los Angeles area, which have forced at least 70,000 evacuations and claimed five lives. The fires have been labeled the most destructive in the city's history.

In a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), Hilton, 43, reflected on the loss of her family home. "Sitting with my family, watching the news, and seeing our home in Malibu burn to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience," she wrote, sharing a clip from KABC showing the aftermath.

Hilton also noted the deep personal connection to the home, saying it was where her son took his first steps. Her message highlights the profound personal toll of the wildfires as the region continues to reel from the disaster.

Read in full from Shannon Power on Newsweek.

MAP: Shows Main Fires

Cal Fire has a map showing main California fires as of 06.42 ET on Thursday.

WATCH: LA Mayor Karen Bass Refuses to Respond to Apology Call, Left Speechless

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass faced sharp criticism upon her return from a trip to Ghana for her handling of the devastating wildfires ravaging the city. Sky News correspondent David Blevins confronted Bass, asking if she owed an apology to residents for her absence during the crisis.

Bass stood silent in front of the microphone, declining to answer. She also did not respond when pressed about whether she regretted previous budget cuts amounting to millions from the fire department. Her refusal to address the questions has fueled further backlash as the city continues to grapple with the ongoing wildfire emergency.

LAPD Working to Redirect Hollywood Traffic

LA Major Karen Bass has stated via her X account "We are deploying LAPD officers to respond to Hollywood to help alleviate evacuation traffic."

She said "We are working urgently to close roads, redirect traffic and expand access for LAFD vehicles to respond to the growing fire."

WATCH: Pasadena Fire Chief Gives Update On Eaton Wildfire And Water System Issue

Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin cites wind gusts, power loss and lack of water as major impacts causing the spread of fire in the past 24 hours.

Oscar Nominations Delayed Due to LA Fires

The devastating wildfires sweeping through the Los Angeles area this week have disrupted numerous events, including the announcement of the Oscar nominations LA Times has reported.

Originally set for January 17, the unveiling of nominees for the 97th Academy Awards has been postponed to January 19. In addition, nominations voting has been extended by two days, now closing on January 14, according to a letter from Academy Chief Executive Bill Kramer obtained by The Times on Wednesday.

The delay reflects the widespread impact of the fires on the region's daily life and major cultural events.

"We want to offer our deepest condolences to those who have been impacted by the devastating fires across Southern California," the letter said. "So many of our members and industry colleagues live and work in the Los Angeles area, and we are thinking of you."

Images from Past 24 Hours Reveal Devastation

Images filed in the past 24 hours show the shocking destruction wreaked on one of the world's best known locations.

Several Hollywood studios suspended production, and Universal Studios closed its theme park between Pasadena and Pacific Palisades.

Dry winds, including the notorious Santa Anas, have contributed to warmer-than-average temperatures in Southern California, which has not seen more than 0.1 inches (2.5 millimeters) of rain since early May.

In the race to get away in Pacific Palisades, roadways became impassable when scores of people abandoned their vehicles and set out on foot.

Flames moved so quickly that many barely had time to escape. Police sought shelter inside their patrol cars, and residents at a senior living center were pushed in wheelchairs and hospital beds down a street to safety.

In Pasadena, Fire Chief Chad Augustin said the city's water system was stretched and was further hampered by power outages, but even without those issues, firefighters would not have been able to stop the fire due to the intense winds fanning the flames.

Nearly 2,000 homes, businesses and other structures have been destroyed in the Eaton and Palisades fires, and the number is expected to increase. The five deaths recorded so far were from the Eaton Fire.

WATCH: Footage of Building on Fire Above Sunset Boulevard

Journalist Alexandra Datig has posted footage on her X account showing a structure burning, "on hillside above Sunset Bl. near the intersection of Sunset and PCH as apartment complex burns."

Power Outages Top 337K Households

Tracking by poweroutage.us shows 337,956 residences without power in California as of Friday morning as firefighters battle to contain the blazes to prevent further damage to infrastructure and allow repair crews to safely work to restore power.

Red Flag Extended to 6 p.m. Friday

The National Weather Service has extended its Red Flag Warning to 6 p.m on Friday "due to extremely low humidity and high winds."

Three Fires Sweep LA

Massive wildfires continue to sweep across Los Angeles, driven by dry conditions and powerful Santa Ana winds, prompting thousands to evacuate.

Among the three active wildfires is the newly ignited Hurst Fire, originally referred to as the Sylmar Fire, which broke out around 10:30 p.m. last night in the San Fernando Valley.

The blaze spread with alarming speed, scorching 100 acres in just 15 minutes, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for residents in the affected area as firefighters work to contain the rapidly advancing flames.

Read in full from Martha McHardy on Newsweek.

WATCH: View of Fire From Verdugo Peak

The University of San Diego has the following live cam showing the fire from Verdugo Peak.

WATCH: Footage of Firefighting Aircraft Battling Hollywood Hills Inferno

Dramatic video shows raging fires engulfing the ironic Hollywood Hills while firefighting aircraft dump water on the blazes.

List of Public Shelters Available in LA

The California Governor's Office for Emergency Services has released a list of public shelters available.

"As California endures wildfires fueled by high wind activity, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is coordinating with the California Department of Social Services and local governments to ensure impacted communities have access to shelters and vital services," said the office on its website.

"For specific shelter operation details, please contact your local authorities7, " it said.

As of Jan. 8, 2025, the following shelters are listed as open:

Pasadena Civic Auditorium 300 E. Green St, Pasadena CA 91101

Westwood Recreation Center 1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025

El Camino Real Charter High School 5440 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 90025

Ritchie Valens Recreation Center 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd, Pacoima, CA 91331

Trump Blames Newsom and Biden

The President-elect blasted California Gov. Newsom in a new conference.

Trump also hot out at Newsom in a Truth Social post.

"As of this moment, Gavin Newscum and his Los Angeles crew have contained exactly ZERO percent of the fire," said Trump.

He also blamed President Joe Biden for lack of resources available to fight the fires.

"No water in the fire hydrants, no money in FEMA. This is what Joe Biden is leaving me," Trump said.

Read in full from James Bickerton on Newsweek.

School Made Famous by "Carrie" and "Teen Wolf" Is Casualty of Fire

The Palisades Fire has severely impacted the community, damaging or destroying more than half a dozen schools, including the iconic Palisades Charter High School. Known for its appearances in Hollywood productions such as the 1976 horror classic Carrie and the TV series Teen Wolf, the school is among the most notable casualties.

UCLA has canceled classes for the week as the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of the fire.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass provided an update, confirming that air operations were actively dousing flames but warned that "erratic winds" remain a challenge. She noted that while conditions had improved compared to Tuesday evening—when high winds grounded aircraft and much of the destruction unfolded—the situation is still precarious.

News Conference Called Short Due to New Blaze

The Sunset Fire erupted around 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, just as officials were holding a news conference to update the public on efforts to combat the massive Pacific Palisades and Altadena wildfires. During the briefing, Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley abruptly departed after announcing the new blaze. An evacuation order was issued shortly after, underscoring the continuing high fire danger in the region as crews work to contain multiple fast-moving wildfires.