Wildfire Forces 30,000 to Evacuate Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles

A rapidly spreading wildfire engulfed parts of Pacific Palisades on Wednesday, forcing the evacuation of 30,000 residents in the upscale coastal neighborhood. The fire, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, has damaged several homes, though no injuries have been reported. Over 250 firefighters, supported by 46 engines and five helicopters, are battling the blaze, which has consumed more than 1,200 acres. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) described the fire as "extremely challenging" due to the combination of high winds and rugged terrain.

Authorities issued evacuation orders early Wednesday, urging residents to leave immediately. "Don’t wait, evacuate," read an advisory from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. Vice President Kamala Harris expressed her support, stating, "Our thoughts are with those affected."

The historic Palisades Charter High School, often used as a Hollywood filming location, has suffered severe damage. According to Los Angeles Unified School District board member Nick Melvoin, the school was "engulfed in flames."

The neighborhood, known for its celebrity residents, saw stars like James Woods and Steve Guttenberg take action. Woods shared footage of nearby flames on social media, praising first responders for their swift work. Guttenberg helped clear abandoned vehicles to allow emergency crews better access to the area.

Hollywood has also felt the impact, with the premieres of Unstoppable and Wolf Man canceled due to the escalating fire. Universal Studios cited "sensitivities around the worsening weather situation and evacuations" for postponing the events.

Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, thanking President Joe Biden for federal assistance. Newsom warned that the worst might not be over, as wind speeds of up to 100 mph—the strongest in Southern California in a decade—are forecast.

Thick smoke and flying debris blanketed the region, creating dangerous conditions for evacuees. Traffic jams along Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga Canyon Road forced some to abandon their vehicles and flee on foot.

Cindy Festa, a resident, described the scene: "Flames were so close to the cars. The wind made it impossible for firefighters to contain the blaze."

The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning, citing "life-threatening winds and extreme fire risk." The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection noted that the dry Santa Ana winds and low humidity have created critical wildfire conditions. This fire comes just weeks after the Franklin Fire in Malibu, which burned over 4,000 acres and displaced several high-profile residents.

Officials urged those outside the evacuation zone to stay off the roads to allow emergency responders to operate efficiently. The LAFD highlighted the need for residents to remain vigilant as conditions evolve. Local shelters have opened their doors, and volunteers are assisting displaced families and their pets.