Multiple Wildfires Force Mass Evacuations Across Los Angeles County

Raging wildfires tore through Los Angeles County early Wednesday morning, forcing the evacuation of at least 80,000 residents as firefighters struggled to control the fast-moving flames. Powerful Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour, drove multiple fires across the region, creating a catastrophic scenario for residents and first responders alike.

The fires dubbed the Palisades Fire (3,000 acres), Hurst Fire (1,000 acres), and Eaton Fire (500 acres) remain out of control, consuming thousands of acres as emergency personnel race against time to prevent further devastation. Smaller fires have also ignited across the county, exacerbating an already dire situation.

• The Los Angeles County Fire Department confirmed zero percent containment on the Palisades Fire early Wednesday morning.

• Wind speeds of 50 mph, with gusts up to 100 mph, have grounded aerial firefighting efforts, preventing the use of helicopters and planes to drop fire retardant.

• The Pasadena Fire Department Chief described the scene as "apocalyptic," with trees toppling, homes burning, and embers sparking spot fires faster than crews can contain them.

In Pasadena, nursing home residents faced a harrowing evacuation from the advancing Eaton Fire. Video footage captured elderly patients being wheeled across the street in hospital beds as staff and responders fought against the powerful winds. Authorities used ambulances, SWAT vehicles, and any available transport to relocate vulnerable residents to safety.

First responders have issued urgent warnings to those still in fire-prone areas, urging immediate evacuation.

• Fire Captain Robert Foxworth warned residents not to wait: "By the time you realize it, you're stuck."

• Flames are leaping ahead, throwing embers hundreds of feet forward, igniting new fires that could quickly trap those who delay evacuations.

• Pasadena’s Fire Chief stressed that containment is impossible without aerial support, which will remain grounded until winds subside.

Despite the widespread destruction, no fatalities have been reported so far. However, with unpredictable winds and extreme fire conditions expected to persist into Thursday, officials remain on high alert.

Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and urge residents in high-risk areas to stay informed and be prepared to evacuate at a moment's notice.

Stay informed, stay safe, and if you know anyone in the affected areas, encourage them to evacuate while they still can. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.