Wildfire Forces Tens of Thousands to Evacuate in L.A.'s Pacific Palisades as Santa Monica Faces Growing Threat

A fast-moving wildfire in Pacific Palisades, in Los Angeles, is now threatening Santa Monica, destroying homes and having already forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate. The fire, which has burned nearly 3,000 acres, remains uncontained, with strong winds worsening the situation and hindering firefighting efforts.

Over 220,000 customers were without power in Los Angeles County due to safety power cuts and ongoing wildfires on Wednesday morning. Local officials have warned that the danger could escalate as wind gusts are expected to peak at speeds up to 100 miles per hour, fueling the flames and increasing the risk to nearby communities.

The Palisades Fire has already impacted the Pacific Palisades area, with thousands of residents ordered to evacuate. At least 30,000 people were told to leave their homes as the fire advanced, causing traffic blocks and panic. Some evacuees abandoned their cars on narrow roads in the chaos after authorities urged them to run.

Local news outlets reported that the fire had engulfed parts of Palisades Charter High School, with explosions heard near the campus. Additionally, parts of Palisades Elementary Charter School were also damaged by flames.

As the fire continues to spread, officials have expanded evacuation orders to northern Santa Monica. The National Weather Service has issued severe red flag warnings as dry, erratic, and powerful offshore winds intensify, with fire hazards extending from central California to the US-Mexico border. Beverly Hills, Hollywood Hills, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley are facing a "particularly dangerous situation," the highest fire alert level.

Two other fires near Altadena and Sylmar also remain uncontained, and evacuation orders have been issued for these areas as well. Schools in Santa Monica, Malibu, and Pasadena will be closed on Wednesday due to the fires.

Strong north winds are expected near the fire through at least Wednesday, with speeds forecast to peak between 35 and 60 mph from 10 p.m. Tuesday to 5 a.m. Wednesday.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The Palisades Fire comes as Southern California braces for a potentially life-threatening Santa Ana wind storm, which could last several days. With the region experiencing months of dry conditions, vegetation is highly susceptible to burning.

President Joe Biden, who has been briefed regularly on the situation, urged residents to stay alert and follow the guidance of local authorities. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized funds to assist in the firefighting efforts.