California Fires Live updates: destructive wildfires in history

Wildfires in the Los Angeles area have claimed 11 lives and forced tens of thousands to evacuate. Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered an investigation into water shortages that hampered firefighting efforts, calling it “deeply troubling.” 

The largest fires, the Palisades and Eaton blazes, are only partially contained, with firefighters racing against time to establish control lines amid dangerous conditions. Together, these fires have consumed over 36,000 acres, destroying neighbourhoods and infrastructure. Authorities are investigating potential causes, including the role of power lines during high winds. Meanwhile, reports of looting and identity theft in evacuation zones have led to 18 arrests, prompting heightened security measures.

The human toll is mounting as well. Among the victims are a man in his 60s who lived in his childhood home, an 80-year-old retired aerospace engineer, and a retired pharmacy technician whom neighbors called “an angel.” President Biden has assured federal support for recovery efforts, while FEMA has pledged resources to help displaced residents.

Los Angeles, known as the home of many Hollywood celebrities, is facing devastation from deadly wildfires that began on Tuesday in California. 

The Eaton Fire near Pasadena, which broke out on Tuesday night, has already destroyed over 5,000 structures. Meanwhile, the Kenneth Fire, which started Thursday afternoon in the San Fernando Valley, is burning just two miles away from a school being used as a shelter for evacuees from another fire.

This live blog will serve as your real-time source for updates as we follow the developments of these wildfires. We'll cover everything from the latest on fire containment, new evacuation orders, and the ongoing investigation into the water supply issues. We'll also bring you stories of the community's resilience, official responses, and the efforts of emergency services. Stay tuned for continuous updates on this unfolding emergency in California. 

Jan 14, 2025 11:38 IST
LA cracks down on exploitation of wildfire victims
Los Angeles law enforcement has issued a strong warning against those attempting to exploit victims of the recent wildfires, vowing to "throw the book" at anyone caught looting, burglarizing, price gouging, or engaging in internet scams. Nine individuals have already been charged, with more cases under investigation, including three accused of looting goods worth over $200,000 and another group who allegedly stole an Emmy award, which has been recovered. Under California’s three-strikes law, some of the accused could face life sentences if convicted, particularly if they have prior convictions. Authorities are also cracking down on price gouging and online fraud targeting wildfire survivors, ensuring essential expenses, such as rent, do not rise more than 10%.



Jan 14, 2025 11:37 IST
Powerball winner Edwin Castro loses Malibu mansion in fires
Edwin Castro, the Altadena resident who won a record-breaking $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot in 2023, has tragically lost his $3.85 million ocean-view mansion in Malibu to the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles County. The property, one of his recent acquisitions, was destroyed as the fires spread through the area, according to a report by the Los Angeles Times, cited by CNN.



Jan 14, 2025 11:36 IST
SoCal Sports Teams Donate $8M for Fire Relief Efforts
Twelve sports teams from Southern California, including the Lakers, Clippers, and Dodgers, have come together to contribute more than $8 million in support of wildfire victims and the firefighters working to contain the blazes. The donations will benefit organizations such as the American Red Cross and various fire relief funds.



Jan 13, 2025 14:59 IST
Investigators probe electric tower as possible eaton fire source
Authorities are investigating whether an electrical transmission tower in Eaton Canyon was the origin of the Eaton Fire, the Los Angeles Times reports. The site has been secured, with only investigators allowed access, according to Wayne Howerton from the California Department of Fire and Forestry Protection. Southern California Edison stated Sunday that its initial review of circuits and transmission lines in the area found no signs of electrical issues around the time the fire began. "Our analysis shows no interruptions or anomalies in the 12 hours before the fire and over an hour after it was reported," the utility said.
 



Jan 13, 2025 10:50 IST
16 Missing as Los Angeles Wildfires Rage On
At least 16 people are reported missing in the wake of devastating wildfires around Los Angeles, with officials expecting the number to rise. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna stated that his office had received "dozens" of additional missing person reports recently, though none of the 16 confirmed missing are children. Burned-out homes and vehicles in areas like Pacific Palisades underscore the severity of the destruction as the fires continue to spread.



Jan 13, 2025 09:37 IST
Los Angeles wildfires: Death toll rises to 24
The tragic toll from the Los Angeles wildfires continues to climb, with authorities confirming that 24 lives have been lost as of Sunday. The County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner released information regarding the fatalities but has not disclosed specific identities at this time.
 
Key updates include:
• Palisades Fire zone: Eight victims have been found.
• Eaton Fire zone: Sixteen victims have been identified.
 
Emergency responders and firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the fires, but the scope of the disaster is vast. Residents in affected areas are urged to follow evacuation orders and stay informed through official channels.
 



Jan 12, 2025 20:02 IST
Thousands Under Evacuation Orders in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County is grappling with a crisis as over 150,000 residents remain under evacuation orders due to the escalating Palisades Fire. According to Michael Traum of the California Office of Emergency Services, shelters are housing more than 700 evacuees across nine locations, while expanded orders have forced additional communities to leave their homes.
 
On Friday, authorities issued broader evacuation mandates, with warnings approaching the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), prompting students to prepare for a potential evacuation. Sheriff Robert Luna reported that nearly 180,000 residents had been evacuated as of Thursday, with an additional 200,000 under warnings.
 
Evacuation orders, which are mandatory, underscore the severity of the situation, while warnings signal the need for residents to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Officials continue to monitor high winds and shifting conditions, urging those in affected areas to prioritize safety and adhere to directives



Jan 12, 2025 15:43 IST
Mayor of Paradise reaches out to Altadena leader
A day after a devastating fire swept through Altadena, California, Steve Crowder, Mayor of Paradise, reached out to town council chairperson Victoria Knapp. Crowder, whose city was nearly destroyed in the Camp Fire six years ago, offered support and guidance drawn from his own experience of loss and recovery. Having lost his home, business, and cars but not his hope, Crowder reminded Knapp and her community that they are not alone in facing the challenges ahead.



Jan 12, 2025 15:18 IST
Malibu has lost one-third of its eastern edge, mayor says
Malibu Mayor Doug Stewart reported that the city has lost a third of its eastern edge to the Palisades Fire, marking the third major fire in three months. He described the destruction as devastating, particularly along the Pacific Coast Highway from Topanga to Duke’s Malibu, where beautiful homes, including those in Big Rock, have been lost. While Malibu faces a long recovery, Stewart emphasized that the fight is not over, as the fire remains active and high winds continue to threaten the area.



Jan 12, 2025 14:07 IST
Over 700 seek shelter as California wildfires force evacuations
More than 700 people have sought refuge in nine shelters across Los Angeles County as wildfires rage on, with 150,000 residents under evacuation orders. Emergency crews, including firefighters from Mexico, continue to battle the fires, with 1,354 fire engines and 84 aircraft deployed.



Jan 12, 2025 14:07 IST
Preity Zinta expresses heartbreak over California wildfires
Actor Preity Zinta, residing in Los Angeles, shared her concern over California's wildfires, expressing gratitude for her safety but heartbreak for those affected. She mentioned that her family and friends were either evacuated or on high alert, with ash filling the skies. Zinta offered her thoughts and prayers to those displaced or who have lost everything, hoping for the fires to be contained soon.



Jan 12, 2025 12:03 IST
Wildfire containment update by LA County fire department
The LA County Fire Department reported progress in wildfire containment: the Kenneth Fire (1,052 acres) is 90% contained, Lidia Fire (395 acres) is fully contained, and Hurst Fire is 76% contained. Meanwhile, the Palisades Fire continues to burn across 23,654 acres, and the Eaton Fire spans 14,114 acres.
1/11 P.M. Incident Update🔥#EatonFire
14,117 acres
15% contained#PalisadesFire
23,654 acres
11% contained#HurstFire
799 acres
76% contained#KennethFire
1,052 acres
90% contained#LidiaFire
395 acres
100% contained

For emergency & evac. info:

🔗https://t.co/G8xgTGVjkX pic.twitter.com/RanDWyDu9j
— LACoFD (@LACOFD) January 12, 2025



Jan 12, 2025 11:28 IST
Officials warn residents against returning to burned homes
Following devastating wildfires, some residents have been returning to sift through the rubble of their destroyed homes, searching for keepsakes. However, officials on Saturday urged residents to stay away, cautioning that the ash may contain hazardous substances such as lead, arsenic, asbestos, and other toxic materials.
 
“If you’re kicking that stuff up, you’re breathing it in,” said Chris Thomas, spokesperson for the unified incident command at the Palisades Fire. “All of that stuff is toxic.” Thomas stated that residents would be permitted to return with protective gear only after damage assessment teams have evaluated their properties



Jan 12, 2025 10:53 IST
Death toll rises to 16 in L.A. firestorms
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has confirmed that the death toll from the Palisades and Eaton Fires has risen to 16.  Officials report that the Palisades Fire has claimed five lives, while the Eaton Fire has resulted in 11 fatalities. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as recovery efforts are underway.



Jan 12, 2025 10:44 IST
'22 arrested in wildfires,' Says LA County Sheriff
LA County Sheriff Robert Luna announced during a press conference that 22 individuals have been arrested for curfew violations, burglary, and looting in areas impacted by the Eaton Fire and Palisades Fire.
 
To aid law enforcement efforts, the California National Guard has been deployed to assist in maintaining order.
 
Earlier, Governor Gavin Newsom criticized Elon Musk on X after Musk claimed California Democrats were decriminalizing looting. "Stop encouraging looting by lying and telling people it’s decriminalized. It’s not. It’s illegal as it always has been. Bad actors will be arrested and prosecuted," Newsom wrote on the platform.



Jan 12, 2025 10:43 IST
US Congressman Tours Altadena Fire Damage
U.S. Representative Jimmy Gomez, representing California’s 34th District, toured the fire damage in Altadena caused by the Eaton Fire on Saturday. During his visit, Gomez met with firefighters actively working to contain the blaze.
 
The fire has destroyed approximately 7,000 structures, leaving widespread devastation.
 
"The recovery phase will take months—and a lot of effort and support," Gomez stated on X.



Jan 12, 2025 10:41 IST
At least one fire is nearly 100 percent contained
Cal Fire has provided updated containment figures for the ongoing wildfires:
 
• Eaton Fire: 15% contained
• Palisades Fire: 11% contained
• Kenneth Fire: 90% contained
• Hurst Fire: 76% contained
Officials are bracing for strong north-to-northeast winds and low humidity, which have prompted a red flag warning for the areas impacted by the Palisades Fire. Critical fire weather conditions, driven by intense Santa Ana winds, are expected to persist through Wednesday.
 
The strongest winds are anticipated on Tuesday, with the red flag warning remaining in effect until 6:00 PM on Wednesday.



Jan 12, 2025 10:40 IST
LA County public health is extending its smoke advisory
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has extended its smoke advisory due to ongoing wildfires. According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District, smoke from the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst Wildfires has caused unhealthy air quality in Los Angeles County.
 
The advisory highlights that northwest coastal areas, including Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Pasadena, are expected to experience the greatest smoke impact. The advisory will remain in effect until Sunday, January 12, 2025, at 10:00 PM.



Jan 11, 2025 17:34 IST
Angelina Jolie, celebrities step up amid devastating LA wildfires
As wildfires ravage Southern California, Angelina Jolie and her son Knox have joined efforts to support those affected. The actress revealed she is housing displaced individuals at her Los Feliz home and plans to contribute to fire relief funds. Other celebrities, such as Jamie Lee Curtis and Christopher Guest, have donated $1 million, while Jennifer Garner volunteered with World Central Kitchen.
 
Many high-profile figures have lost homes to the fires, including Mel Gibson, Adam Brody, and Ricki Lake, who shared her grief on social media, calling the loss "immeasurable."
 
The situation remains critical, with at least 11 lives lost and thousands evacuated. The Palisades Fire, currently only 8% contained, and the Eaton Fire, at 3% containment, rank among California’s most destructive wildfires. California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced an independent investigation into water shortages hindering firefighting efforts.
 
President Biden and Vice President Harris have pledged federal support as firefighters continue to battle the blazes amid forecasts of renewed Santa Ana winds.
 



Jan 11, 2025 16:23 IST
Families return to smoldering ruins of LA homes to search for memories
As their homes continue to smolder, families in the Los Angeles area are returning to their neighborhoods to face the heartbreaking reality of what’s been lost. Many watched in shock as the fires destroyed their properties on television. Despite the ongoing threat of new fires, residents are beginning the painful process of sifting through the wreckage. With calmer winds allowing firefighters to gain control of the blazes, evacuations were still being issued due to flare-ups, particularly near the Palisades Fire. Bridget Berg, who watched her Altadena home burn from work, returned with her family to search through the remnants, their feet crunching across the debris of the home they had lived in for 16 years.



Jan 11, 2025 16:22 IST
Devastating LA fires to drive insurance premium hikes
The fires sweeping through Los Angeles' upscale neighborhoods, including Pacific Palisades and Malibu, are expected to be the most costly in California’s history. Experts predict insurance premiums will rise significantly in a region already struggling with insurance availability. JPMorgan analysts estimate the total damage and insured losses have reached $50 billion and $20 billion, respectively, with flames still spreading. These figures far exceed those from the 2017 Tubbs fire and 2018 Camp fire, which had insured losses of up to $16 billion. The high value of homes in affected areas plays a major role, with more than 10,000 buildings destroyed, many valued at an average of $3 million. In contrast, the 2018 Camp fire destroyed around 18,000 buildings, but with an average home value of just $500,000.



Jan 11, 2025 14:36 IST
Palisades Fire Moves East Toward Mandeville Canyon
The Palisades Fire began moving east late Friday, reaching the Mandeville Canyon area near the 405 freeway, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Capt. Adam VanGerpen explained that while red flag wind conditions ended earlier in the evening, the fire is still spreading rapidly due to the terrain. Crews are now focusing efforts in that direction, with ten aircraft and two additional strike teams deployed to fight the blaze. Although the winds have calmed in the area, the fire continues to be driven by steep topography, posing ongoing challenges for firefighters.
 



Jan 11, 2025 14:33 IST
Dennis Quaid Evacuates Amid Palisades Fire, Praises Firefighters
ctor Dennis Quaid and his family evacuated their home near the Palisades Fire as evacuation orders expanded into Encino and Mandeville Canyon. Quaid, whose house was on the edge of the evacuation zone, described the destruction as unimaginable, saying, “Our experience of reality can change in a moment.” Though his home remains intact, Quaid revealed friends lost theirs and commended firefighters as heroes for their swift action. Currently staying in a hotel, he returned to his property to secure utilities and assist neighbors, acknowledging the region’s worsening wildfire conditions due to dry weather and strong Santa Ana winds in an uncharacteristic January fire season.



Jan 11, 2025 13:09 IST
Joe Rogan predicted Los Angeles wildfires in 2024 podcast
In a July 2024 episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Joe Rogan discussed the wildfire risks in Southern California, recalling a conversation with a firefighter who predicted a catastrophic fire in the region. The firefighter warned that with the right winds, a fire could race from Los Angeles all the way to the ocean, burning thousands of acres and spreading so fast that firefighters would be powerless to stop it.
the California fires were perfectly predicted with insane accuracy by a firefighter that spoke to Joe Rogan pic.twitter.com/zuM8gmvJRX
— ryan 🤿 (@scubaryan_) January 9, 2025
Rogan, wearing a Los Angeles Fire Department T-shirt, emphasized how the sheer size and speed of such a fire, driven by winds of 40 mph, would overwhelm firefighting efforts. He had previously raised similar concerns in past podcast episodes. In 2018, living in Ventura County, he mentioned this warning during an interview with mentalist Derren Brown while fires raged nearby. In 2019, Rogan discussed the potential worsening of California wildfires with journalist David Wallace-Wells, citing predictions that fire risk could increase 64 times by the century's end.
 
Now, as the Palisades and Eaton Fires devastate Los Angeles County in January 2025, Rogan’s early warning has sadly proven true. These wildfires have forced evacuations, destroyed homes, and claimed at least 10 lives, with the full extent of casualties still unclear.
 



Jan 11, 2025 13:07 IST
L.A. County declares health emergency due to smoke and ash
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has declared a local health emergency as the ongoing firestorm worsens air quality. Strong winds and smoke from the Palisades fire have severely degraded air quality, releasing hazardous smoke and particulate matter that pose immediate and long-term risks to public health, officials stated on Friday evening.



Jan 11, 2025 13:06 IST
Palisades fire devastates thousands of acres
The Palisades Fire has burned 21,317 acres, destroying homes, businesses, and landmarks in Pacific Palisades and westward toward Malibu. As of Friday morning, the fire was 8% contained. Authorities issued mandatory evacuation orders from Sunset Boulevard north to Encino Reservoir and from the 405 Freeway west to Mandeville Canyon. New evacuation warnings were also issued for areas east of the 405 Freeway, north of West Sunset Boulevard, and south of Mulholland Drive, including parts of Ventura Boulevard and Encino.



Jan 11, 2025 10:41 IST
NBA postpones lakers and clippers games due to California wildfires
The NBA has postponed Saturday’s home games for the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers due to the ongoing wildfires in California. The league stated that the decision was made in coordination with local officials in Los Angeles and Inglewood to ensure resources remain focused on wildfire response efforts. The Lakers were set to host the San Antonio Spurs, while the Clippers were scheduled to face the Charlotte Hornets. Makeup dates for the games have yet to be announced.



Jan 11, 2025 10:13 IST
Lidia fire 98% contained after intense firefighting efforts
The Lidia Fire, which ignited late Wednesday and burned 394 acres, is now 98% contained, according to Cal Fire. Fire crews worked tirelessly, using dozers to clear vegetation and constructing handlines to control the blaze near Soledad Canyon Road and Polsa Rosa Ranch.
Cal Fire credited their aggressive containment strategies for the progress. The Los Angeles County Fire Department will continue monitoring and patrolling the area overnight to ensure the fire remains under control.



Jan 11, 2025 10:01 IST
Hurst fire 70% contained, other fires continue to burn
The Hurst fire in northern Los Angeles is now 70% contained, according to CNN. Meanwhile, five other fires remain active in the region: Eaton (3% contained), Palisades (8% contained), Kenneth (35% contained), and Lidia (75% contained).



Jan 11, 2025 10:00 IST
Los Angeles wildfires destroy over 12,000 of homes
The Los Angeles wildfires, which started on Tuesday, have caused massive destruction, leaving many in shock. Over 12,000 homes and buildings have been destroyed across a 25-mile stretch north of downtown Los Angeles. At least 11 people have died, and officials fear the death toll may rise as search and rescue efforts continue.
'ABSOLUTELY HORRIFIC': Video shows the devastating aftermath of California's deadly wildfires as local resident returns to find his apartment building reduced to rubble. pic.twitter.com/x8atwJm3Gq
— Fox News (@FoxNews) January 10, 2025
The fires have burned more than 56 square miles, forcing 150,000 people to evacuate. In some areas, water systems failed, making firefighting even harder. Governor Gavin Newsom has called for an investigation into the loss of water pressure. Thankfully, winds have started to ease, allowing firefighters to make progress in containing the flames. Drone footage shows entire neighbourhoods reduced to ashes, including beachfront mansions and family homes. The Eaton Fire near Pasadena has destroyed more than 7,000 structures, while the Pacific Palisades fire has become the most destructive in Los Angeles history, with over 5,300 structures lost. The damage is devastating, and the recovery will take years.
View of the fires from a plane 👀

Prayers for Southern California

This is crazy pic.twitter.com/NxmSqOH4wJ
— TONY™ (@TONYxTWO) January 8, 2025



Jan 11, 2025 09:50 IST
Financial losses and cause under investigation
The financial toll of the Los Angeles wildfires remains unclear, but AccuWeather estimates losses between $135 billion and $150 billion. Over 5,300 structures have been damaged or destroyed in Pacific Palisades, marking it as the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history. Investigators are looking into multiple causes for the fire, which started behind a house on Piedra Morada Drive, home to stars like Jamie Lee Curtis and Billy Crystal, who lost their homes. Lightning, a common cause of fires, has been ruled out.



Jan 11, 2025 09:45 IST
Los Angeles wildfires—ongoing crisis unfolds
Welcome to our live coverage of the Los Angeles wildfires. Fires continue to rage across the region, causing widespread destruction and displacing thousands of residents. The situation remains critical with red flag warnings expected to persist and containment efforts underway. We’ll be bringing you real-time updates on firefighting efforts, evacuation orders, and the human impact of this unfolding disaster.
 
Currently, six wildfires are burning across Los Angeles County:
Palisades fire: 21,317 acres, 8% containment
Eaton fire: 13,690 acres, 3% containment
Kenneth fire: 1,052 acres, 50% containment
Hurst fire: 771 acres, 37% containment
Lidia fire: 395 acres, 98% containment
Archer fire: 19 acres, 0% containment
 
Tragically, the death toll has risen to 11, with six confirmed fatalities in the Eaton fire and five in the Palisades fire. Over 12,000 structures have been destroyed, and these fires are on track to become two of the most destructive in California history. Officials warn the toll could rise further as investigators access the burn zones.
 
Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered an investigation into the water shortages that hindered firefighting efforts and has invited former President Donald Trump to visit the devastated areas. In a move to protect affected residents, California has issued a one-year moratorium preventing insurance companies from canceling or refusing to renew home policies in impacted zip codes.
 
Stay with us throughout the day for updates on the fires, stories from affected communities, and the latest on efforts to contain these deadly blazes.