At least 16 people have died, and wildfires have destroyed over 12,000 structures in Los Angeles County. Authorities warn the fires may worsen as they continue to rage across the region. The disaster has caused mass evacuations, school closures, and canceled events, disrupting life for thousands.
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) closed schools on Thursday and Friday. Officials cited hazardous air quality and the dangers of travel. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho stressed the risks for children with respiratory conditions. Some schools near evacuation zones reported power outages and low attendance before the closure.
Residents in Pacific Palisades and other areas evacuated as fires grew. Kenneth, a local resident, said, “We had to evacuate, so our lives are a mess. But at least we’re still alive.”
Six major wildfires continue to burn in the county. The Palisades Fire alone has scorched 21,300 acres and destroyed more than 5,300 structures. Fires in Eaton Canyon and Highland Park damaged homes, two elementary schools, and parts of Palisades Charter High School.
The fires have disrupted Hollywood. Film premieres for Unstoppable, Wolf Man, and Severance Season 2 were canceled. NBCUniversal and Netflix also postponed press events and music shows.
Award-season events, including the Oscar Nominations Announcement and the BAFTA Tea Party, were postponed. The iHeartRadio ALTer EGO music festival was canceled.
Sports events faced similar disruptions. The Los Angeles Lakers postponed their Thursday game against the Charlotte Hornets. The Rams relocated their playoff game to Arizona. College events, like Pepperdine University’s basketball game, were also delayed due to restricted campus access.
More than 100,000 residents are under evacuation orders. Tens of thousands more are on high alert. Officials warn the death toll may rise as investigators access damaged areas.
The fires have burned nearly 36,000 acres. Over 12,300 structures are gone. Winds and dry conditions make containment efforts harder. Los Angeles faces a long battle as the fires continue to spread.
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