Runyon Canyon Wildfire Forces Evacuations, Spreads Quickly |
A dangerous and rapidly spreading brush fire has erupted in the Runyon Canyon area of the Hollywood Hills, leading to evacuations for nearby residents, according to fire officials.
The Sunset Fire was first reported just last evening around 6 PM. The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed the fire began on Solar Drive, near Wattles Park in the 2300 block. By 6:15 p.m., the blaze had consumed approximately 20 acres of vegetation. Firefighters are currently battling the flames as they continue to spread through the area.
The ongoing wildfires in Southern California have left a deep mark on the Los Angeles area, including significant losses for several prominent celebrities. Here’s an update on the wildfires and their effects on the entertainment community:
Celebrity Losses and Impact
- Billy Crystal and his wife Janice have lost their home of 45 years in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, a property they raised their children and grandchildren in. Despite the emotional toll, the couple expressed that the memories created there cannot be taken away.
- Other celebrities affected by the fires include Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton, Mark Hamill, and James Woods, many of whom were forced to evacuate their homes in the Pacific Palisades. The neighborhood is a hillside area home to several Hollywood stars and is also famous from its mention in the Beach Boys’ classic, “Surfin’ USA.”
- The Pacific Palisades fire, along with the Eaton fire and Hurst fire—which are affecting other parts of Southern California—have caused widespread destruction. Several celebrities are now displaced as these fires continue to burn uncontrollably.
Evacuations and Displacement
- Pacific Palisades is one of the hardest-hit areas as 70,000 residents are forced to evacuate. In addition to Pacific Palisades, parts of Santa Monica and Altadena are also being affected.
- As flames moved quickly through residential areas, many people fled their homes in a panic, often leaving vehicles behind due to impassable roads. Some evacuees carried belongings such as suitcases, adding to the chaotic scene.
Power Outages and Infrastructure Strain
- More than 1.5 million people were without power as of Wednesday, according to reports. The fires, along with strong winds, have caused widespread power outages, further straining resources and complicating firefighting efforts.
Impact on the Entertainment Industry
- The fires have wreaked havoc on the entertainment industry. Premieres of major films like Better Man and The Last Showgirl were canceled, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards nominations were announced via press release, rather than at a live event.
- Even Oscar nominations have been delayed by two days, now scheduled for January 19. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has also extended the voting window for members, acknowledging the challenges posed by the fires and allowing those affected more time to cast their votes.
The Devastation in Perspective
Less than three days before the fires ravaged the region, Hollywood had celebrated the start of its awards season with the Golden Globes—a glamorous event filled with stars. In stark contrast, the once-celebratory mood turned somber as the fires escalated, forcing evacuations and disrupting the lives of many in the entertainment community. With the losses of homes, memories, and more, this disaster has left a deep emotional and practical impact on the city.
Continued Battle Against the Fires
Firefighters are continuing to battle the wildfires across Southern California, working tirelessly to contain the blazes. California Governor Gavin Newsom has mobilized over 7,500 firefighting and emergency personnel to protect communities across the state, according to an official statement.
Newsom also issued an executive order to provide additional support for those impacted by the wildfires. This move follows President Biden’s approval of a Major Disaster Declaration, which will enhance federal aid to the state. Just a day earlier, Newsom declared a state of emergency, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
“All available resources are being deployed to combat these wildfires, with support from local, state, and federal levels.” Newsom stated.
Key Agencies Coordinating the Response:
- More than 4,700 CAL FIRE staff are tackling the blaze, aided by tankers and helicopters in the air.
- The Office of Emergency Services has activated the State Operations Center, mobilizing 1,040 firefighters and requesting additional engines from neighboring states.
- The California National Guard has dispatched more than 600 service members to assist in firefighting and rescue operations.
- Four emergency shelters are currently open, providing temporary housing for 500 evacuees.
Officials are warning residents to remain on high alert as conditions shift swiftly.
