Containment of Los Angeles-area Eaton and Palisades fires continue amid high wind warnings
Efforts to contain and suppress two Southern California wildfires continue Wednesday as fire crews work amid a Paticularly Dangerous Situation alert red flag warning weather conditions.
The Eaton Fire has burned 14,117 acres and is now at 45% containment and "steadily progressing," according to Cal Fire. Some areas within the burn footprint have isolated heat pockets, where fuels continue to burn out. Tactical patrols and mop-up operations are taking place in other portions of the burn area, the agency said.
Mandatory evacuation zone orders in Pasadena for the Eaton Fire have been reduced to warnings, while all evacuation orders remain in place at the Palisades Fire site.
Urban Search and Rescue efforts, infrastructure and damage assessments, and evaluations of hazardous materials are ongoing for the communities on the southern edge of the fire. Officials say these efforts are essential before repopulation of the evacuated areas can happen.
Just over a week ago, on Jan. 7., destructive Santa Ana winds fueled the Eaton Fire in the northeast portion of the county near Pasadena and the Palisades Fire in the coastal community of Pacific Palisades.
The 23,713-acre Palisades Fire is 21% contained and fire crews. Work is ongoing to build and strengthen containment lines surrounding the fire's footprint.
Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley highlighted the work done overnight Tuesday into Wednesday to control potential spread.
"Infrared flights last night indicated that there are still numerous hot spots burning within the fire footprint.," she said. "Very close attention was made to address any flareups swiftly as to prevent any fire spread outside of the perimeter."
In total, the fires are responsible for at least 25 deaths so far, with 26 missing persons reports still active. Both fires are among the five most destructive fires California has seen since record keeping started in 1932, according to Cal Fire.
At the Eaton Fire site, Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone said Wednesday morning that 45% of damage inspections have been completed.
Officials say significant safety and infrastructure issues remain, including downed power lines, broken gas lines, hazardous materials and unsafe water.
"Please know we are working diligently to address these challenges and assure your safety and safety of our first responders," Crowley said.
Los Angeles County has provided preliminary maps showing damage assessments for both the Eaton and Palisades fires. Officials said the maps are updated daily. The color-coded maps show structures that are destroyed, structures with major to minor damage, those affected and those with no damage. Visit recovery.lacounty.gov to view the maps.