Fires in California – element consumes thousands of hectares

As of January 7, 2025. California is grappling with one of the most tragic disasters in history. The fires that have covered much of Los Angeles County have caused unimaginable damage. The cause of the element is attributed to the extreme weather conditions the region has been experiencing for months. Years of drought have led to the drying up of reservoirs and rivers, turning vegetation into ideal fuel. The situation is exacerbated by gusty Santa Ana winds, reaching speeds of up to 80 km/h, which scatter sparks over vast distances, accelerating the spread of the fire.

The number of victims is growing

The fires have already claimed 10 lives, but authorities fear the number could be higher – many people are still considered missing. More than 130,000 residents have been affected by the evacuation and have had to leave their homes in a hurry. Firefighters, often working in extreme conditions, are struggling to contain the spread of the fire. Authorities and humanitarian organizations are trying to provide those affected with the necessary assistance, but the scale of the tragedy makes it difficult to coordinate efforts.

Lack of water paralyzes firefighting operations

One of the biggest challenges for firefighters has been the inefficiency of the water supply infrastructure. In many areas, hydrants have stopped working, making it significantly more difficult to extinguish fires effectively. The problem stems from several key causes. First, the prolonged drought has led to a drastic reduction in water levels in reservoirs and rivers, limiting the availability of water resources. Many of the reservoirs have been over-exploited to meet water needs for agriculture, industry and a rapidly growing population.

Second, the water supply network in many areas is outdated and insufficiently prepared for extreme loads. During fires, the huge demand for water, both for firefighting and for the needs of evacuated residents, causes rapid pressure drops in the network. As a result, hydrants in key locations have been unable to deliver water in sufficient quantities.

An additional factor is the lack of adequate investment in water infrastructure in recent decades. Many municipalities are struggling with limited budgets, making it impossible to upgrade networks and build new water reservoirs. These problems are compounded by climate change, which prolongs drought periods and increases the risk of wildfires.

The lack of water at key moments forced firefighters to use alternative sources such as tankers, but this took time and logistical preparation. Experts point out that the problem stems from years of neglect in upgrading infrastructure and insufficient preparation for such extreme events.

The threat continues

Meteorological forecasts for Los Angeles County indicate a continuation of adverse weather conditions conducive to the spread of wildfires. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning in effect until Friday, January 10, 2025, at 6 p.m. Pacific time. The warning applies to inland areas of the Los Angeles County coast, including the center of its capital city.

During this period, north and northeast winds of 15 to 25 mph (24-40 km/h) are forecast, with gusts up to 35 mph (56 km/h), and up to 45 mph (72 km/h) in the Hollywood Hills area. Relative humidity is expected to remain at 7-15 percent, with a slight improvement at night. Local authorities have issued warnings, urging people to be ready to evacuate if the situation worsens.

President Biden promises support

The fires in California are already among the most destructive in the region’s history. In Los Angeles County, entire neighborhoods have been completely destroyed, and many families have lost their livelihoods. According to preliminary estimates, more than 9,000 buildings have been destroyed, including homes, businesses and public facilities. The scale of the destruction means that reconstruction will take years, and costs could be record high.

President Joe Biden assured that the federal government will cover the costs of rebuilding the damaged areas. In his speech, he stressed that the disaster calls for decisive action, both in terms of helping those affected and investing in infrastructure to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Celebrity homes in flames

Fire spares no one. The luxury mansions of Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, Jeff Bridges and Miles Teller burned to the ground. Historic mansions and historic villas, symbols of California’s cultural heritage, were also destroyed. Paris Hilton, in an interview, shared her traumatic experience, speaking of her helplessness in the face of the flames engulfing her home.

Some of the destruction has affected places of special historical value, such as the William S. Hart mansion, the silent movie museum and the Getty Villa. Fire also consumes historic villas in Malibu and Pacific Palisades and threatens Will Rogers’ residence in the park named after him.

Hazard map

The current situation can be followed on a fire map compiled by the Los Angeles Times. According to the latest data, the largest fires are:

• Palisades Fire: 19,978 acres (8090 ha), destroyed homes and businesses in Pacific Palisades and along Pacific Coast Highway;
• Eaton Fire: 13,690 acres (5540 ha), significant damage in Altadena and Pasadena;
• Kenneth Fire: 960 acres (390 ha), damage in Woodland Hills area;
• Sunset Fire: 60 acres (24 ha) in Hollywood and Hollywood Hills;
• Hurst Fire: 855 acres (346 ha), partially contained in Sylmar.

Curfew and prevention activities

Due to numerous incidents of looting in areas affected by the fires, Los Angeles authorities have imposed a curfew to protect residents’ property. The National Guard has been called in to assist local services, tasked with maintaining order and supporting evacuations. Authorities are appealing to residents to observe safety rules and report any suspicious activity.