Multiple fires are raging across Southern California as strong Santa Ana winds exacerbate the situation. The most recent, dubbed the Woodley Fire, ignited near the Sepulveda Basin in the San Fernando Valley. CBS Los Angeles reports that the blaze, which was initially said to have covered 75 acres, is being driven by strong winds and presents the risk of jumping across Burbank Boulevard.
The Woodley Fire is situated by the 101 and 405 freeways and as of now, there's no confirmation of structural damage. Over the past day, thousands have been placed under evacuation orders due to several brush fires in the region. A state of emergency was declared by Gov. Gavin Newsom, covering all fires, according to NBC Los Angeles.
Meanwhile, the adjacent Palisades Fire has consumed over 2,900 acres in the Pacific Palisades, and the Eaton Fire in Pasadena and Altadena has engulfed over 2,227 acres. With fires spreading rapidly, local roads are closed to all traffic except emergency vehicles. The efforts to control the calamitous Woodley Fire continue as firefighters strive to prevent the flames from advancing further.
In a tragic development, the Eaton Fire has been reported to have claimed two lives in Altadena. The details of these fatalities and the injured were shared in a conference earlier this morning. The KTLA interview revealed that "a number" of significant injuries have been reported. The Santa Ana winds remain relentless, creating a challenging environment for the firefighters and emergency crews on the ground.
The latest update on the Woodley Fire indicates that its spread has been somewhat contained with its burn area reduced to 30 acres. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and more updates will follow as the situation develops.
