Authorities in California continue to battle the wind-driven wildfires that are sweeping through the state, prompting the evacuation of at least 180,000 residents and claiming the lives of at least 10 people.
Evacuation orders remain in effect for some areas of Los Angeles County as efforts to contain the blazes intensify. Multiple fires erupted across L.A. this week, with the Pacific Palisades fire becoming the region’s most destructive, consuming more than 19,978 acres.
Breakdown of Fires and Damage
- Palisades Fire: Consumed 19,978 acres, destroying numerous homes, businesses and landmarks in Pacific Palisades and westward along the Pacific Coast Highway toward Malibu.
- Eaton Fire: Burned 13,690 acres, damaging many structures in Altadena and Pasadena. Additional evacuation orders were issued Thursday afternoon, though some mandatory evacuations were lifted as residents in Glenoaks and Chevy Chase Canyons were allowed to return home.
- Kenneth Fire: Scorched 960 acres near the Los Angeles-Ventura County border, prompting evacuation orders.
- Sunset Fire: Burned 60 acres in Hollywood and the Hollywood Hills. Evacuation orders were lifted by the Los Angeles Fire Department on Thursday morning.
- Hurst Fire: Covered 855 acres in the Sylmar area. Authorities have since lifted all evacuation orders.
Travel Disruptions & Closures
Operations at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located about 19 miles south of Pacific Palisades, have largely continued without disruption. However, regional travel has been significantly impacted as wildfires continue to blaze across the area.
The LAFD reported that as of 7 p.m. Thursday, the Pacific Coast Highway remains closed between the McClure Tunnel in Santa Monica and Topanga Canyon, with the LAPD managing traffic to support evacuation efforts. Additionally, California’s Department of Transportation announced multiple road closures throughout the region, further complicating travel for residents and visitors.
Travelers are urged to check local advisories and monitor flight schedules for potential delays or changes due to shifting conditions. Several popular attractions in and around Los Angeles have been temporarily closed due to wildfires impacting the region.
For a full list of which attractions are closed in L.A., how to help and to read an official statement from the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board (Los Angeles Tourism), visit Discover Los Angeles.
Princess Cruises Offers Support
Princess Cruises, located in Los Angeles’ hometown, has expressed deep sympathy for those affected by the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires. “Our hearts go out to all those affected during this challenging time,” the company stated in a recent announcement.
To assist guests impacted by the fires, the cruise line is offering flexible cancellation options for sailings scheduled between Jan. 11 and Jan. 30, 2025. Guests whose homes are in evacuation areas or have sustained significant damage can cancel their cruise and receive:
- A Future Cruise Credit that is equal to the full value of their booking.
- Full refunds for additional purchases, including shore excursions and Princess Packages.
Princess Cruises emphasized their commitment to providing guests with the opportunity to rebook when ready, with the Future Cruise Credit valid for any sailing departing from the Los Angeles World Cruise Center in 2025.
“As proud members of the Los Angeles community, we remain dedicated to supporting our neighbors during this difficult time,” the company affirmed.
Hotels Open Doors for Displaced Residents
In response to the ongoing fires in Southern California, hotels across the region are stepping up to assist displaced residents, with conditions ranging from closures in Malibu to open doors in Santa Monica. The Hotel Association of Los Angeles reported that hotels have welcomed thousands of evacuees, offering discounted rates and essential items like toiletries. Many are also accepting pets and donating bedding and personal care items to shelters.
