Los Angeles Wildfires of January 2025
by Milan Riley
Starting on January 7, 2025, hurricane-strength Santa Ana winds caused several major wildfires across the Los Angeles area. Dry conditions created by an extreme lack of seasonal rainfall meant that when strong winds reaching up to 80 mph in the mountain ranges downed power lines, many fires were sparked and embers quickly spread. Dangerous wind conditions on the first night of the fires prevented water and fire retardant drops from airplanes and helicopters in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena/Eaton Canyon fire areas, causing these fires to grow rapidly and impact entire neighborhoods to a horrifying degree. All in all, seven named wildfires occurred during the firestorm, most of which required evacuation. The two largest and most devastating were the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire.
Beginning on January 7th, the Palisades Fire quickly grew to about 10,000 acres within the first twenty-four hours. Its explosive growth reflects its new position as the third most destructive wildfire in California history. It ultimately burned 23,448 acres and consumed 6,800 structures, sadly taking the lives of 12 victims. The Palisades Fire originated at Skull Rock, spread through Pacific Palisades, then into Malibu and some of Topanga Canyon. It was finally 100% contained as of January 31st.
The Eaton Fire surpasses the Palisades Fire as the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles history and the second most in California. The fire originated on January 7th in Eaton Canyon near Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive. It ultimately burned 14,021 acres and destroyed over 10,000 structures in total, resulting in 17 fatalities. Authorities are continuing to monitor the area’s recovery after firefighters reached 100% containment on January 31st.
You can find each fire’s statistics at CAL FIRE.
In addition to the devastation caused by the flames, over 500,000 people were left without power throughout the region. Many residents were forced to evacuate and multiple shelters were opened to support community members impacted by the wildfires. While many have been able to return home, others have had to face a new reality with the loss of their homes. Residents across California continue to support these evacuees’ safety and well-being, contributing to over 400 wildfire-related GoFundMe fundraisers. As our city heals from this natural disaster, donations are still being requested to support those who have lost so much. You can find details for donating and volunteering at LA STRONG.
Interview with Mr. Knauss by Ava-Ray Pributsky
The recent L.A. wildfires have had a daunting impact on our own community, as described by Mr. Knauss, a Science Academy physics teacher who had to evacuate from his Altadena home for several days. While his house survived, his backyard and shed were destroyed, and his brother’s house was completely lost.
“It was very fast-paced and full of panic,” he recalled about the evacuation, as he and his family packed up their pets and essentials before fleeing to safety. The west side of Altadena suffered the most, with entire neighborhoods wiped out and residents struggling to contact loved ones. City services were overwhelmed, and the National Guard remains to prevent looting.
Photos from Mr. Knauss on the first night of the Eaton Fire, starting with the downed trees in his neighborhood
Despite the destruction, the community has rallied together, providing donations and support. “The neighborhoods within the community are very strong,” Knauss noted, emphasizing how people have helped each other cope with the aftermath and started to rebuild. However, recovery will take years, as essential businesses and even Mr. Knauss’s own elementary school, which he attended as a boy, were lost. Still, he remains optimistic, offering his best wishes to those affected: “I’m hopeful for a new start, and send my best wishes out to the community.”
Other teachers, students, and staff also had to evacuate during the various fires before being cleared to return home. Sadly, a teacher at East Valley High School evacuated during the Eaton Fire, only to later find out that her home had been destroyed. The staff and families at both schools rallied around to support her by providing monetary and material donations. Thank you to all who contributed. Our hearts go out to her and all those impacted during this challenging time.