Pacific Palisades Wildfire: Everything You Need to Know (January 7, 2025)
The Pacific Palisades wildfire is rapidly spreading, with mandatory evacuation orders in place and several key areas under threat. Stay informed with the latest updates, safety tips, and resources to ensure you and your loved ones remain safe during this emergency.
Current Fire Status
January 7, 2025: Timeline of Events
12:03 PM: Fire reported, burning 200 acres with homes under immediate threat.
1:40 PM: Acreage grows to 300; evacuation orders remain unchanged.
3:30 PM: Fire expands to 1,261 acres due to strong winds; burns westward.
7:30 PM: 2,920 acres burned; mandatory evacuation zone expanded east and north.
Key Statistics
Date & Time | Acreage | Evacuation Orders |
January 7, 12:03 PM | 200 | Merrimac Rd (NE), Topanga Canyon (NW), PCH (South) |
January 7, 1:40 PM | 300 | No changes |
January 7, 3:30 PM | 1,261 | Same boundaries; growing westward |
January 7, 7:30 PM | 2,920 | Expanded east to Kenter Rd, north to Mulholland Rd |
Evacuation Orders and Zones
Residents in the evacuation zone must leave immediately to ensure safety.
Mandatory Evacuation Area (7:30 PM Update)
North: Mulholland Road
East: Kenter Road
South: Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)
West: Topanga Canyon Blvd
Note: Turn off power to your home before evacuating.
Evacuation Shelters
For Residents and Small Animals
Westwood Recreation Center
Address: 1350 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Services:
Accepts small animals
Open for overnight shelter
For Large Animals
Los Angeles Equestrian Center
Address: 480 Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91506
Road Closures
Pacific Coast Highway (PCH): Closed between McClure Tunnel (Santa Monica) and Topanga Canyon Blvd.
LAPD is managing traffic for evacuations in affected areas.
Preparedness Tips: Ready, Set, Go!
If you're near the evacuation zone but not directly affected, preparation is critical.
1. READY: Prepare in Advance
Pack a go bag with essentials: medications, important documents, food, and water.
Create an evacuation plan for your family and pets.
Stay updated via LAFD Alerts and local news.
2. SET: Be Alert
Keep your car fueled and parked facing outward.
Place your go bag in an accessible location.
Review emergency contact numbers.
3. GO: Act Immediately
Follow evacuation orders promptly.
Avoid delaying to gather belongings.
Stay informed on shelter locations and road closures.
Why Wildfires Spread Rapidly in Pacific Palisades
The Pacific Palisades region’s mountainous terrain and strong winds create ideal conditions for wildfire growth. The National Weather Service predicts overnight wind peaks, which could further escalate the fire.
Key Factors
Strong Winds: Spread flames quickly across dry vegetation.
Topography: Steep slopes make firefighting efforts challenging.
Dry Vegetation: Acts as fuel, increasing fire intensity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What should I do if I’m near the evacuation zone?
Prepare a go bag, stay informed, and be ready to leave if evacuation orders expand.
2. Where can I take my pets?
Small animals: Westwood Recreation Center.
Large animals: Los Angeles Equestrian Center.
3. How can I stay informed about the fire?
Follow LAFD Alerts, local news, and use the interactive evacuation map.
Resources and Links
Ready, Set, Go Program: LAFD Ready, Set, Go!
Interactive Evacuation Map: Fire Evacuation Map
Emergency Updates: Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD)
Keywords:
Pacific Palisades wildfire
Evacuation orders Los Angeles
Wildfire safety tips
