A strong gust with a maximum speed of 129 km/h hit the Los Angeles area, the largest city in the western U.S., overnight on the 7th (local time), followed by continued strong winds which caused a wildfire to spread.
The California fire authorities reported that at 10:30 a.m., a wildfire started in the Pacific Palisades region along the Pacific coast and expanded quickly due to the strong winds. The affected area grew to 772 acres (3.12 km²) within three hours and increased further to 1,262 acres (5.1 km²) by 4:14 p.m.
The LA Fire Department stated that this fire put around 26,000 residents of over 10,000 households at risk, prompting evacuation orders. This area is known for its scenic beach views and is home to large mansions where many Hollywood actors and wealthy individuals reside.
Local resident and actor James Woods posted a series of close-up videos on X (formerly Twitter) showing raging flames consuming several houses in the fire-stricken area. He wrote, “I hope everyone gets out safely,” adding, “I am leaving now.”
While the direct cause of the wildfire remains undetermined, the rapid spread is attributed to the gusts that hit the LA area. These gusts, known as ‘Santa Ana,’ are localized winds that blow from the Sierra Nevada Mountains towards the California coast, often occurring in fall and winter. They blow at almost hurricane speed and, due to their unpredictable direction, are also called ‘Devil Winds.’
Southern California Edison, the company supplying electricity to the LA area, began proactively cutting power to about 8,600 households (including commercial facilities) considering the fire risk. The company is also contemplating cutting power to an additional 400,000 households.
Experts have analyzed that the persistent drought conditions in Southern California, including the LA area, have heightened fire risks, with no rain exceeding 2.5 mm since early May.
Last month, a major wildfire occurred along the Malibu coast in northwest LA, not far from Pacific Palisades, resulting in the destruction of numerous homes and the evacuation of thousands of residents.
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