Palisades Fire in Los Angeles Burns 1,262 Acres As Strong Winds Intensify Blaze
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – A rapidly spreading wildfire in Los Angeles has scorched 1,262 acres near the Pacific Palisades, prompting evacuations and strong winds that continue to fuel the flames.
The growing wildfire near the Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles, California, has consumed 1,262 acres as powerful winds and dry conditions intensify the blaze.
"The fire is now 1,262 acres and growing due to the extreme wind conditions. The winds are anticipated to peak in the overnight hours. The Mandatory Evacuation zone remains the same and encompasses most of Pacific Palisades," the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) said in a statement on Tuesday.
President Joe Biden confirmed that he is “frequently briefed” on the situation and has offered federal support to assist in firefighting efforts.
"My team and I are in touch with state and local officials, and I have offered any federal assistance that is needed to help suppress the terrible Pacific Palisades fire," Biden said in a statement.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to assist impacted areas and cover immediate firefighting costs in California. Biden urged local residents to "stay vigilant and listen to local officials.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to aid the affected communities.
"Southern California residents: stay vigilant, take all necessary precautions, and follow local emergency guidance," Newsom wrote on X.
Evacuation orders have been issued for the Pacific Palisades area, with reports showing a bulldozer moving cars to create a path for emergency vehicles. The fire is rapidly spreading westward, approaching the Pacific Palisades Highlands community, LAFD spokesperson Erik Scott said in a video posted online.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined, but the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reports that the blaze is 0% contained since it began at approximately 11:04 a.m. local time (1904GMT).
The LAFD has directed residents of Pacific Palisades to evacuate immediately, setting up an evacuation center at the Westwood Recreation Center.
"People in the area of Palisades need to evacuate now due to a rapidly moving wildfire. Pack all people and pets into your vehicle and leave the area immediately. If you are not in the mandatory evacuation zone, stay off the roads to allow first responders and evacuees to move quickly," the LAFD warned.
The fire is being fueled by what the National Weather Service calls a "life-threatening and destructive windstorm" set to continue through Wednesday morning. Wind gusts in the area are expected to range from 50-80 miles per hour (80-129 kph), with some mountainous areas facing gusts of up to 100 mph (161 kph).