Wildfires have destroyed thousands of homes and claimed at least five lives.
Massive wildfires near Los Angeles expanded into the Hollywood Hills neighborhood on Wednesday. The fires have already caused significant devastation, with at least five fatalities and thousands of homes destroyed. Firefighting resources and water supplies are stretched to their limits.
On Wednesday evening, a new fire ignited in the parched Hollywood Hills, Fire Chief Kristin Crowley confirmed during a press conference. The situation prompted further evacuations, including in areas tied to the entertainment industry.
One such location is the Dolby Theatre, home to the Oscars. Due to the fires, organizers have postponed the announcement of next week’s Academy Award nominations by two days.
Los Angeles is currently battling at least six active wildfires, four of which remain entirely uncontained, according to state officials.
Although the Hollywood Hills fire is relatively small, it is burning above Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame. Should it cross Highway 101, landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory could be at risk.
Fires Ravage Thousands of acres and properties across Los Angeles
To the west of Los Angeles, fires have consumed 6,406 hectares (approximately 15,830 acres) and destroyed numerous structures in the hills between Santa Monica and Malibu.
On the city’s eastern side, in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, fires have scorched 4,289 hectares (about 10,600 acres) and over 1,000 buildings. Local authorities have reported five fatalities in this area and have arrested three individuals for looting.
According to the Associated Press, homes owned by Hollywood celebrities Leighton Meester, Adam Brody, Billy Crystal, Mandy Moore, and Paris Hilton were among the properties destroyed.
Estimated losses exceed $50 billion
Private meteorology firm AccuWeather has estimated initial damages and economic losses from the fires at over $50 billion. Meanwhile, nearly 300,000 homes and businesses remain without power in Los Angeles County, according to PowerOutage.us.
Drought and high winds fuel the flames
The California fires have been fueled by a combination of severe drought and strong winds reaching speeds of 120 kilometers per hour (75 mph). These winds have accelerated the spread of flames through urban areas. Governor Gavin Newsom warned that wind gusts were expected to peak on Wednesday night local time.
Meteorologists had warned days in advance of wildfire risks in California, an unusual occurrence in the middle of winter. The fires have been exacerbated by the seasonal Santa Ana winds, which are typically hot and dry, appearing during the fall and winter months.
