Multiple fast-moving wildfires are raging across southern California, forcing thousands to evacuate and threatening entire communities. As the situation worsens, get the latest facts and learn how you can support community-led efforts.
The Palisades fire has become the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles history, burning around 40,000 acres and causing significant damage to homes and businesses along the Pacific Coast Highway toward Malibu. Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire has scorched at least 10,000 acres, damaging areas in Altadena and Pasadena.
Source: LA Times + CBS News
At least 24 people have been killed, with numerous serious injuries reported by officials, as the wildfires continue to rage. Officials have also warned of substantial loss of wildlife and severe damage to the local ecosystem as the fires persist.
Source: AP News
[Support community-led recovery with a donation to GlobalGiving’s California Wildfire Relief Fund.]
With evacuation orders in place for multiple areas, including Pacific Palisades and Pasadena, thousands of homes are at risk of being lost as the fires spread. Fire officials have reported that at least 1,000 homes in Los Angeles County have been destroyed.
The LA County Fire Department “was prepared for one or two major brush fires, but not four,” the county’s fire chief said. There are not enough county personnel to handle all the fires, he said in an interview with CNN.
Source: CNN + Cal Matters
Crews battling these fires are facing additional challenges, including a lack of water from fire hydrants in the area, which is complicating firefighting efforts. With resources already stretched thin, first responders are facing immense pressure to manage multiple crises simultaneously.
Source: LA Times
According to Cal Fire, drought and extreme heat across the state are creating ideal conditions for larger and more destructive wildfires. In southern California, the usual desert winds are no longer needed to fuel coastal fires, as parched vegetation now easily ignites. What was once a “fire season” has now become a “fire year,” marking the shift to a year-round wildfire crisis. Today, the entire region is under smoke advisories, with little to no rainfall since July.
Source: Cal Fire
GlobalGiving is working with responding nonprofit partners to meet the immediate needs of first responders and impacted communities in California. Once urgent needs are met, the GlobalGiving California Wildfire Relief Fund will transition to support community-led, long-term recovery efforts as needed.
Source: GlobalGiving California Wildfire Relief Fund
Why? Survivors’ needs vary greatly in the aftermath of a crisis event. Some will require financial support, medical care, and psychological assistance years down the road. You can learn more about the importance of cash donations in this infographic with more practical tips for helping communities affected by these wildfires in California.
Sources: GlobalGiving + USAID Center for International Disaster Information
This article was originally published on Jan. 8 and last updated on Jan. 13
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