California Los Angeles Wildfires LIVE Updates: New wildfire sweeps across Los Angeles, Hollywood Hills as over 100,000 flee

California Los Angeles Wildfires Live Tracker News Updates: At least six wildfires are now burning across California and Los Angeles which has killed at least 5 people so far

California Los Angeles Wildfires LIVE Updates: Raging wildfires have surrounded Los Angeles, killing at least five people, destroying hundreds of homes as more than 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate.

California Fire Live Map and Tracker

What is the current status? A new wildfire has reportedly erupted in the Hollywood Hills scrubland, Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley announced, as five other blazes continued to devastate the county. The powerful Santa Ana winds, typically associated with high wildfire risks, fanned the flames and hindered firefighting operations.

How have residents been affected? The fires devastated communities, particularly in Pacific Palisades and Hollywood Hills, known for their affluent residents. Pacific Palisades, home to celebrities like Jamie Lee Curtis and Mark Hamill, saw widespread destruction, forcing evacuations. Homes and properties worth millions were consumed by the flames, with more than 1,000 structures destroyed. Hollywood Hills also experienced evacuations, with a new fire breaking out and threatening iconic areas. Nearly one million homes lost power, and schools were closed countywide. Many evacuees, including both ordinary residents and high-profile individuals, were forced to seek shelter elsewhere.

Live Updates
17:33 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Film stars, celebrities lose homes, flee from Los Angeles wildfires

Billy Crystal lost the Pacific Palisades house where he had lived since 1979.

Paris Hilton watched her Malibu beach mansion burn down on live TV.

Jamie Lee Curtis, James Woods, Mandy Moore, Mark Hamill and Maria Shriver were among the other celebrities forced to evacuate as out-of-control fires in Los Angeles swept across some of the most lavish real estate in the world.

The largest blaze consumed nearly 12,000 acres (5,000 hectares) in Pacific Palisades, a picturesque neighborhood between the beach towns of Santa Monica and Malibu that is home to many film, television and music stars.

The $6.5 million home of "Gossip Girl" star Leighton Meester and her husband Adam Brody of "The O.C." went up in flames.

Perennial Oscars host Crystal and his wife Janice said they were heartbroken to lose the Pacific Palisades house where they had raised their children and grandchildren since 1979, "but with the love of children and friends we will get through this".

Reality TV star Hilton said she was "heartbroken beyond words" to lose her beachfront mansion. "Sitting with my family, watching the news, and seeing our home in Malibu burn to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience," she wrote on X.

-Reuters

17:03 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Story so far | Hollywood Hills burn as LA engulfed by 'the big one'

If you are joining us just now, this is what we are covering

The Hollywood Hills blazed uncontrollably on Thursday morning as the worst wildfires in the history of Los Angeles raged across the city and deep into the storied heartland of the American film industry.

A crescent of flame squeezed Los Angeles in a huge pincer visible from space.

What we know so far

More than 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate as dry, hurricane-force winds hindered firefighting operations and spread the flames.
At least five people have been killed since the fires erupted on Tuesday.
The homes of movie stars and celebrities were among those consumed by flames, which tore through some of the world's most lavish real estate and above showbiz landmarks instantly recognisable around the world.
"This firestorm is the big one," Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass told a press conference after rushing back to the city, cutting short an official trip to Ghana.

-Reuters

16:52 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Meanwhile, schools cancel classes across the Southern US as another burst of winter storms move in

Schools and buildings from Texas to Georgia were shut down Thursday or prepared to close ahead of freezing rain and snow forecast for much of the Southern US as another burst of plunging temperatures and winter storms threatened to again snarl travel.

Texas schools cancelled classes for more than 1 million students in anticipation of icy and potentially dangerous conditions that could last into Friday.

Closures also kept students home in Kansas City and Arkansas' capital, Little Rock, while Virginia's capital, Richmond, remained under a weather-related boil advisory.

The cold snap coincided with rare January wildfires tearing through the Los Angeles area, forcing residents to flee from burning homes through flames, ferocious winds and towering clouds of smoke.

In the Dallas area, crews treated roads ahead of the expected arrival of 2 to 4 inches (about 5 to 10 centimeters) of snow Thursday.

-AP

16:12 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: IN PICS | Wildfire seen through burning building's windows

Flames are seen through a window of a burning building, as powerful winds fueling devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area force people to evacuate, at the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, U.S. January 8, 2025. (Photo Reuters)

15:25 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: $52-57 billion damage and economic loss in preliminary estimates

The wildfires that have ravaged parts of Los Angeles may have burned down an estimated $52 billion to $57 billion in preliminary damage and economic losses.

This is according to preliminary estimates by commercial weather forecasting service provider AccuWeather.

An estimated 1,000 structures have been destroyed in the hilly coastal neighborhood of Pacific Palisades, making it the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history.

13:57 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Fire erupts in Studio City as California battles series of wildfires

A fire broke out near Sunswept Drive and Vanetta Place in Studio City late Wednesday night, damaging several homes as firefighters rushed to contain the flames. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reported that more than 50 firefighters, aided by helicopters, had contained the blaze by 10 pm local time, though one home was destroyed, collapsing under the fire’s intensity, according to NBC4.

The blaze, named the Sunswept Fire, began as a small brush fire before rapidly spreading to nearby homes, igniting spot fires that caused additional damage. While no injuries were reported, officials said the full extent of the damage had yet to be assessed.

The Sunswept Fire is one of several wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles County, part of a devastating series of blazes that have already claimed at least five lives and caused hundreds of injuries. Earlier on Wednesday, authorities ordered mass evacuations as wildfires ravaged the Hollywood Hills, threatening homes and landmarks. Read

13:36 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: 97th academy awards nominations postponed amid California wildfires

The announcement of the 97th Academy Awards nominations has been delayed from January 17 to January 19 due to devastating wildfires in Southern California.

CEO Bill Kramer expressed condolences to affected members and extended the voting deadline to January 14.

The Oscars, hosted by Conan O'Brien, remain set for March 2 at the Dolby Theatre.

The fires have led to evacuations, significant losses, including homes of celebrities, and disruption of major events like film premieres, the SAG Awards, and Critics Choice Awards. (PTI)

13:08 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: What we know so far on Los Angeles wildfire crisis
Several wildfires are raging around Los Angeles, spreading to the Hollywood Hills, with at least six wildfires currently active in the county.
The fires began on Tuesday and have already burned thousands of acres.
At least five fatalities have been confirmed, and hundreds of homes have been destroyed. The fires have caused significant property damage in areas like Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Studio City.
More than 100,000 people have been evacuated due to the spread of the fires, including residents from iconic areas like Hollywood Boulevard and Mulholland Drive.
The Sunset Fire in Hollywood Hills scorched 50 acres on Wednesday. It is threatening areas such as the Dolby Theater and the Hollywood Sign. Other fires, like the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, have burned thousands of acres and caused further destruction. 5
Firefighters from across the US are being mobilized to assist in battling the wildfires. However, dry, hurricane-force winds have hindered firefighting operations, making containment efforts difficult.
The fires have stretched firefighting resources to their limits, leading to water shortages, especially in upscale areas like Pacific Palisades, where fire hydrants ran dry.
Red flag conditions and strong winds are expected to persist until Friday, exacerbating fire risks. California has faced months without significant rainfall, which has worsened the situation.
Initial damage estimates exceed $50 billion, including property damage, loss of life, and economic disruptions.
Nearly 300,000 homes and businesses in Los Angeles County lost power, though that number was down from nearly 1 million earlier in the day.
Equestrian centers and other shelters have opened their doors to large animals, as evacuation orders force residents to leave behind their horses and livestock.
President Biden has declared the fires a major disaster, and Governor Gavin Newsom is coordinating with federal and local agencies for firefighting and recovery efforts. (Reuters)
13:00 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: Sky turns red as wildfires rage across Los Angeles, Hollywood Hills

In what is being dubbed as the worst wildfire Los Angeles has seen in the history, more than 1,00,000 people have been evacuated and US President Joe Biden has formally signed off on a federal disaster declaration as five people are reported dead in the wildfire.

Celebrities including Jamie Lee Curtis, Mandy Moore, Maria Shriver, Paris Hilton and others were among the list of evacuees as the out of control wildfire raged across Los Angeles, consuming 12,000 acres in Pacific Palisades and leaving over 1.5 million homes and businesses without power.

“Southern California is continuing to endure some of the most historic fire conditions on record,” Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley said. Meanwhile, the water is running short in battle against Los Angeles wildfires. Continue reading...

12:55 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: American star Paris Hilton heartbroken as Malibu home burns down on live TV

American star Paris Hilton took to her X account on Thursday, stating that she is heartbroken after witnessing their home in Malibu burn down on live TV while sitting with her family. "To the brave firefighters and first responders risking their lives to protect us—you are true heroes. I am so grateful for your courage, dedication, and the incredible sacrifices you’re making to save lives and fight this unimaginable battle. Thank you from the bottom of my heart," expresses Hilton.

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12:45 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Canada offers support to California amid wildfire crisis

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his condolences for those impacted by the wildfires in California, including the tragic loss of life. "We’re no stranger to the challenge of wildfires, and California’s been there to help our Canadian firefighters out time and time again. Canadian water bombers are already in action on the front lines. We stand ready to provide more resources to our American neighbours," Trudeau said.

12:01 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Vice President Kamala Harris urges caution and support amid California wildfires

Vice President Kamala Harris expressed concern on her social media account Wednesday, saying, "I am thinking of those impacted by the wildfires in Southern California and praying for the first responders who are taking heroic action to help keep communities safe. "

"Please listen to local officials, evacuate immediately if you are told to do so, and take care of each other," Harris added.

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11:53 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: 'President and I are closely monitoring California wildfires, providing full Federal Support' says Vice President Kamala Harris

Vice President Kamala Harris stated on the X platform that "Throughout the day, I have been in regular communication with state and local officials in California. President Biden and I are closely monitoring the ongoing wildfires, and our Administration is deploying all available federal resources to assist in the response efforts."

11:40 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: California faces elevated fire risk as high winds and dry conditions persist

The California Governor's Office of Emergency Services reported on the X platform that strong winds and dry conditions are heightening fire risks through Friday.

Winds may reach speeds of up to 40 mph, with gusts potentially topping 60 mph in certain areas.

The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings, signalling an increased fire hazard due to a combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds, which are expected to persist across parts of Southern California until Friday.

11:28 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: Paris Hilton, Mandy Moore among Hollywood stars who lost homes to Los Angeles wildfire

Wildfires that are burning in and around Los Angeles have burned several celebrities’ homes and forced stars including Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore and James Woods, to evacuate. Moore, Cary Elwes and Paris Hilton are among the stars who said Wednesday they had lost homes in the fires.

California firefighters are battling wind-whipped fires tearing across the area, destroying homes, clogging roadways as tens of thousands fled and straining resources as the fires burned uncontained Wednesday.

The Pacific Palisades neighbourhood is a hillside area along the coast dotted with celebrity residences and memorialized by the Beach Boys in their 1960s hit “Surfin’ USA.” In the frantic haste to get to safety, roadways became impassable when scores of people abandoned their vehicles and fled on foot, some toting suitcases. Read

11:21 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Over 7,500 firefighters mobilized to battle blazes near Los Angeles, California Governor Newsom

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced on X that more than 7,500 firefighters are actively working to contain five wildfires around Los Angeles. He urged residents of southern California to stay alert, follow local officials' instructions, and be prepared to evacuate if they are in affected areas.

In a separate post, he detailed the resources deployed in the effort, including 1,162 fire engines, 23 water tenders, 6 air tankers, 31 helicopters, and 53 bulldozers.

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11:13 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: Los Angeles schools and offices shut down on January 9 announces superintendent Carvalho

Los Angeles superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho has taken to X to announce that all Los Angeles Unified schools and offices will be closed on Thursday, January 9.

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11:07 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: SpaceX to provide free Starlink terminals to aid fire affected areas in Los Angeles

Elon Musk announced on Thursday that SpaceX will supply free Starlink terminals to areas in Los Angeles impacted by ongoing fires.

Over 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate as dry, hurricane-force winds hindered firefighting operations and spread the fires, which have burned parched terrain almost unimpeded since they began on Tuesday. (Reuters)

11:00 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: California wildfires strain resources amid water shortages and extreme weather conditions

The ongoing wildfires in California have overwhelmed firefighting teams, necessitating reinforcements from six other states.

Water shortages caused some hydrants in Pacific Palisades to run dry, as the demand for firefighting water drained reservoirs, the Reuters reported.

The fires, fueled by the dry Santa Ana winds, are exacerbated by the region's prolonged drought and rising global temperatures, marking a shift in weather extremes. Despite challenges, efforts to refill city water tanks were successful by Wednesday afternoon.

10:48 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Air Quality deteriorates across Southern California, impacting millions amid raging wildfires

As wildfires continue to engulf Southern California, millions of residents are grappling with hazardous air quality levels. The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued air and dust advisories for 17 million people across the region, with smoke and ash blanketing vast areas.

In the hardest-hit regions near the fires, air quality has plummeted. East Los Angeles recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 173, deemed unhealthy for all residents—far above the threshold for good air quality, which is 50 or less.

Dr. Puneet Gupta, assistant medical director for the Los Angeles County Fire Department, warned of the severe health risks posed by wildfire smoke, which can trigger heart attacks and exacerbate asthma.

The burning of homes adds further danger, as toxic chemicals like cyanide and carbon dioxide are released into the air, intensifying public health concerns across the area.

10:41 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Sunset fire in Hollywood hills spreads to over 50 acres, evacuation centre set up

The Sunset fire in Hollywood Hills has rapidly expanded, now covering over 50 acres, according to the latest update from Cal Fire.

Just two hours ago, the blaze was reported to be at 20 acres, indicating a swift spread.

The fire is advancing southward toward Hollywood Boulevard, with the most intense activity occurring on the southwestern side.

Helicopters are actively engaged in firefighting efforts, as per an update from the LA County Sheriffs on X.

The fire's perimeter remains secure on the eastern side, thanks to a fire road and the efforts of ground crews.

An evacuation centre has been set up at the Pan Pacific Recreational Center for those affected by the fire.

10:18 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Palisades fire the most destructive in Los Angeles history

The Palisades Fire has now become the most destructive blaze in Los Angeles history. The devastation has eclipsed the Sayre Fire of 2008, which destroyed 604 structures in Sylmar, according to data from the Wildfire Alliance, a collaboration between the Los Angeles Fire Department and MySafe:LA.

Spanning 25 square miles, the flames consumed parts of Palisades Charter High School, featured in numerous Hollywood productions, and gutted local landmarks including the public library, two grocery stores, and several boutiques in Palisades Village. Among the losses, actor Billy Crystal and his wife Janice saw their home of 45 years go up in flames.

The fire ignited chaos on Pacific Palisades' narrow, winding roads, where panicked residents attempting to flee created gridlock, delaying emergency responders. Crews had to bulldoze abandoned vehicles off the road to clear paths for firefighting operations. The once-idyllic neighborhood, immortalized by The Beach Boys in “Surfin’ USA,” now resembles a scene out of a disaster movie—charred remnants of homes, streets littered with debris, and a sky thick with smoke, as residents confront an apocalyptic aftermath.

10:10 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: Biden approves major disaster declaration for California wildfires

President Joe Biden approved California Governor Gavin Newsom's request for a major disaster declaration in response to the ongoing wildfires. "I've ordered Federal assistance to supplement response efforts in areas affected by wildfires, ensuring impacted communities and survivors have immediate access to funds and resources to begin their recovery," Biden added.

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10:03 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: How have weather conditions worsened the wildfires in Los Angeles?

The powerful Santa Ana winds, typically associated with high wildfire risks, fanned the flames and hindered firefighting operations. Unlike hurricanes that bring moisture, these dry winds accelerated the spread of the fires across parched terrain. Red flag warnings remained in effect, despite predictions of diminishing winds. The fires erupted outside the usual wildfire season, making the situation even more extreme. Scientists warned that this could be part of broader climate-related weather extremes, as rising global temperatures increase the likelihood of more intense and unpredictable wildfires in the future.

10:01 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: Los Angeles Mayor deploys LAPD officers to manage traffic amid growing fire in Hollywood

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced on Wednesday via her X account "We are deploying LAPD officers to respond to Hollywood to help alleviate evacuation traffic. We are working urgently to close roads, redirect traffic and expand access for LAFD vehicles to respond to the growing fire."

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09:52 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: Los Angeles schools closed; food distribution centers activated for students

All schools across the Los Angeles unified School District will be closed on Thursday, the Guardian reported.

In response to the closure of all schools across the Los Angeles Unified School District on Thursday, Superintendent Alberto Carvalho announced the activation of eight food distribution centers. These centers will offer grab-and-go meals to students, ensuring continued access to nutrition for those who rely on school meals. The distribution will begin early Thursday morning.

09:40 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: Top takeaways from the day

1. President Joe Biden cancelled his final overseas trip to Rome and the Vatican.

2. Biden chose to stay in Washington to monitor California wildfires.

3. At least three major wildfires were burning in California, affecting areas from the Pacific Coast to Pasadena.

4. One fire became the most destructive in Los Angeles’ modern history.

5. Over 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate due to the wildfires.

6. The fires have caused the deaths of at least five people.

7. Hundreds of homes have been destroyed in the Los Angeles region.

09:36 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: Actor Priyanka Chopra praises fire department in heartfelt post

Actor Priyanka Chopra took to her social media on Wednesday to share a heartfelt message to Los Angeles fire department, saying, “A huge shoutout to the incredibly brave first responders. Thank you for your tireless efforts overnight and your continued dedication to helping families in need."

09:20 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
Los Angeles Wildfires Live Updates: President Biden cancels Italy trip to focus on California wildfire response

President Joe Biden has cancelled his final overseas trip, which was planned as a three-day visit to Rome and the Vatican to meet Pope Francis and Italian leaders.

The decision was made hours before his departure, allowing him to focus on managing the federal response to historic wildfires devastating California.

Biden had just returned to Washington after meeting fire officials and visiting his first great-grandchild in Los Angeles. The trip, intended as a farewell gesture to emphasize strong American alliances, was postponed as Biden prioritized addressing the crisis at home. (AP)

09:15 (IST) 9 Jan 2025
California Wildfires Live Updates: Welcome to our Live Blog

Good morning and welcome to our Live Blog where we cover the wildfires that have been raging across California and Los Angeles. Hundreds of thousands have been forced to flee from their houses as authorities grapple with intensifying fires across the region. Keep following this space as we bring you the latest news and updates from the ground.

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