What we know about the California wildfires
- Fierce wildfires burning out of control in the greater Los Angeles area have killed at least 5 people and forced 100,000 people from their homes.
- At least five fires are underway, sparked by dry conditions and powerful winds, causing unprecedented scenes in areas not known for fires.
- The Palisades Fire has burned through more than 17,234 acres, almost 27 square miles. It has destroyed 1,000 structures and is entirely uncontained, making it the most destructive in LA history.
- The newest, the Sunset Fire, started shortly before 6 p.m. in the Hollywood Hills and has grown to 60 acres while threatening iconic landmarks.
- More than 350,000 energy customers were without power early today, including 200,000 in LA County, the most populous county in the country.
Firefighters contain Sunswept fire and Woodly fire
The Sunswept Fire is now under control, the unified Los Angeles command responding to the fires said early today, adding that the Woodley Fire in the Sepulveda Basin has also been contained.
It also said the fire department was making progress on the Sunset Fire.
Unsafe water alert issued for Pasadena
The Los Angeles County Sheriff has issued an unsafe water alert for the city of Pasadena, saying the water system was potentially impacted with debris.
"Bottled water should be used for all drinking (including baby formula and juice), brushing teeth, washing dishes, making ice, and food preparation until further notice. This also applies to pets and domestic animals," the alert read.
A boil water notice was in force previously. The new alert strictly warned against self-treatment of water, including by boiling or filter, saying it won't "make the water safe."
"The expected timeframe for resolution is unknown and dependent on evolving fire, wind, and related conditions," the alert added.
Infrared satellite images show extent of Los Angeles fires
A shortwave infrared satellite image released by Maxar Technologies shows burning buildings caused by the Eaton fire in Altadena, northeast Los Angeles yesterday.
![Maxar shortwave infrared closer satellite image of burning buildings in Altadena, California.](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2025-01/250109-maxar-palisades-mb-0812-1bbe2c.jpg)
Across the city the the west, another short wave infrared blended image reveals areas of the the Palisades fire.
![Maxar short wave infrared blended satellite imagery view of fires in of the Palisades fire.](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2025-01/250109-maxar-mb-0820-8fbb16.jpg)
More than 362,000 without power in California
More than 362,000 homes and businesses are without power in California amid the wildfires as of early this morning, according to online outage tracker PowerOutage.us.
Almost 200,000 homes are out in Los Angeles County alone, according to the outage tracking site.
Palisades Fire has grown to more than 17,000 acres
The Palisades Fire has burned through more than 17,200 acres, while the Eaton Fire has grown to 10,600 acres, both with zero containment, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said in an early morning update.
Meanwhile, the Hurst fire has spread across at least 855 acres, but is now at least 10% contained, while the Lidia Fire has burned through nearly 350 acres, with 40% containment.
What we know on L.A. fire evacuations, maps, what caused it, who is impacted and more
Fueled by powerful winds and dry conditions, a series of ferocious wildfires erupted Tuesday and roared across the Los Angeles area, destroying hundreds of homes and leaving at least five people dead.
A Los Angeles county fire official said there were an untold number of significant injuries linked to two of the fires, and a city official in Los Angeles described Tuesday night as “one of the most devastating and terrifying” that she’d seen in her corner of the city.
“This is looking worse and worse the more information we get,” said climate scientist Daniel Swain.
Here’s how to help victims of the Southern California wildfires
Emergency services are being pushed to their limit as they work to contain the ongoing wildfires ravaging Los Angeles County, fueled by dry conditions and powerful winds. Over 80,000 people have been asked to evacuate the area.
Los Angeles County Fire has requested mutual aid from Orange, Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. Firefighters from neighboring states, including Nevada, Oregon and Washington are also joining efforts to combat the blaze.
The following organizations are seeking donations to assist in relief efforts for the Southern California wildfires:
American Red Cross: The American Red Cross is providing shelter, food, emotional support, and health services to those affected by the Southern California wildfires. They are also arranging care for family pets, large animals, and livestock. Make a donation by visiting their website.
CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation: The CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation supports firefighters, their families, and burn victims impacted by wildfires, providing direct assistance to those on the front lines. Donations can be made through their website.
California Community Foundation (CCF): The California Community Foundation (CCF) uses data from CalFire and the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index to ensure grants target underserved communities most affected by the wildfires, focusing on long-term recovery efforts. To help CCF respond to current and future disasters, donate through their website.
California Fire Foundation: The California Fire Foundation is collaborating with local fire agencies and community organizations to provide direct financial support to residents impacted by wildfires. Contribute to their Disaster Relief fund by visiting their website.
Salvation Army: The Salvation Army is deploying emergency supplies and offering financial assistance to evacuees and first responders impacted by the California wildfires. Make a donation directly through their website to assist with their wildfire relief efforts.
World Central Kitchen: World Central Kitchen’s Relief Team is delivering meals to first responders and families affected by the wildfires in the Los Angeles area. Donate through their website to support their efforts.
Multiple homes on fire in Studio City
KNBC’s Julia Deng reports that multiple homes are on fire on Sunswept Drive in the Studio City area of Los Angeles, with the flames threatening a hillside behind the homes.