A rapidly expanding wildfire in the Hollywood Hills has triggered mandatory evacuations as firefighters battle to control the flames amid dry conditions and strong winds.
California fire chief David Acuna reported that containment efforts have made "zero progress" due to gusts reaching up to 100 mph (160 km/h). Although wind speeds have since dropped to 30 mph, the danger remains high due to open terrain.
Over 130,000 people have been forced to evacuate, including residents of celebrity homes, some of which have been destroyed. The first fire erupted in Pacific Palisades near Malibu on Tuesday, with new outbreaks across Los Angeles, including Pasadena, Sylmar, and the Hollywood Hills.
By Wednesday evening, the Hollywood Hills fire blanketed much of the city in thick smoke, obscuring iconic landmarks. Residents fled with minimal belongings as roads, including Hollywood Boulevard, became gridlocked.
Local resident Anna Waldman described how the fire quickly closed in on her home after she smelled smoke while walking her dog. Meanwhile, Makayla Jackson, evacuated from a nearby shelter with her young son, described the chaos as they awaited relocation assistance.
Sunset Boulevard and neighboring areas have been devastated, with long-standing businesses destroyed. Firefighters face additional challenges due to water shortages, forcing them to draw from swimming pools and reservoirs. Officials revealed that elevation issues slowed water distribution to hydrants, making firefighting efforts more difficult.
The Pacific Palisades blaze is now considered the most destructive in the city’s history. Emergency services continue to work tirelessly to protect residents and mitigate further destruction as the situation unfolds.
