In January 2025, Los Angeles faced a series of devastating wildfires, notably the Palisades and Eaton Fires, which began on January 7. These fires were fueled by severe drought conditions and unusually strong Santa Ana winds, with some gusts reaching up to 100 mph. Visit LA Strong for the most up to date and official information from City of LA
Palisades Fire: Originating in the Pacific Palisades area, this fire led to the evacuation of over 105,000 residents and destroyed more than 4,300 structures. Tragically, at least ten fatalities were reported.
Eaton Fire: Starting in Eaton Canyon near Altadena, the Eaton Fire resulted in 17 confirmed deaths and the destruction of approximately 9,300 structures. Over 100,000 residents were evacuated as the fire spread rapidly due to the extreme winds.
The combined impact of these fires was profound, with at least 27 fatalities, over 200,000 evacuations, and more than 12,400 structures either destroyed or damaged. Economic losses were estimated between $20 and $45 billion.
The wildfires also had significant social impacts. Residents expressed frustration over local leadership, notably criticizing Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for being overseas during the crisis. Additionally, the fires severely affected local businesses, with many restaurants experiencing drastic reductions in revenue due to evacuations and decreased patronage.
The January 2025 wildfires underscored the increasing frequency and severity of such events, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by climate change and urban development in fire-prone areas. Biden-Harris Administration Supporting Robust Response Efforts to California Wildfires https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2025/01/08/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-supporting-robust-response-efforts-to-california-wildfires/
Support victims of this climate change emergency
LA Regional Foodbank – The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is working with government agencies, nonprofit and faith-based partners and others to respond to the fires throughout Los Angeles County.
California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund: The California Fire Foundation works with local fire agencies and community-based organizations to provide ongoing, mid- and long-term support to California communities affected by natural disasters like wildfires. The organization, which provides direct support to victims, is beginning to support those impacted by the Palisades Fire. https://www.cafirefoundation.org/what-we-do/for-communities/disaster-relief
World Central Kitchen World Central Kitchen, the nonprofit global food relief organization founded by celebrity chef José Andrés, is already on the ground in Southern California to aid first responders and evacuees. https://wck.org
Sweet Greens will provide meals to first responders, victims, and displaced residents. DM them through social media or call directly.
https://www.instagram.com/sweetgreen/
The California Community Fund has a recovery fund dedicated to helping victims of wildfires. You can donate here. https://www.calfund.org/funds/wildfire-recovery-fund
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation – Hundreds of Los Angeles Firefighters are on the ground around the clock responding to the wildfires. Support LA’s brave and courageous firefighters who save lives, protect our homes and keep our communities safe. supportlafd.org
Resources to help victims of LA wildfires
211 LA is partnering with Airbnb to offer free temporary shelter for people displaced from their homes by fire. Start by filling out this form: https://care.211cs.org/public-survey/86c5adf88e2a29c103df24ba5f48cd3f6cf9a9171207a15954dbb8b9649429f0
Red Cross Los Angeles: Find a Shelter
YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles is opening its locations that aren’t affected by the fires for temporary shelter, showers, basic amenities, and mental health support. They have also teamed up with L.A. Unified School District to provide childcare services for essential workers and affected families until schools reopen. Register on their website. https://www.ymcala.org/community-response
Planet Fitness locations in L.A. are offering anyone affected by the fires, including first responders, free access to their facilities, including showers, massage chairs, locker rooms, and WiFi. Contact the club near you for more information and hours. https://www.planetfitness.com/
Baby2Baby: Distributes essential items like diapers, clothing, and basic necessities to children affected by the wildfires https://donate.baby2baby.org/give/648067/#!/donation/checkout
