PACIFIC PALISADES (CNS) – Fueled by fierce Santa Ana winds, a massive brush fire swept through Pacific Palisades Tuesday, damaging structures and forcing thousands to evacuate. The fire, first reported around 10:30 a.m. near Piedra Morada and Monte Hermoso drives, quickly spread, consuming 2,921 acres by evening, with no containment reported.
Mandatory evacuations were ordered for much of Pacific Palisades, later expanding to include parts of Malibu and Santa Monica. Over 30,000 people were affected, with 13,200 structures threatened. Evacuation centers were set up at Westwood Recreation Center for residents and at Pierce College for large animals.
Firefighters battled the blaze with air tankers and helicopters, but powerful winds grounded most aircraft by 9 p.m. Several roads, including PCH and Sunset Boulevard, were closed, stranding vehicles and leading to abandoned cars being cleared by bulldozers. Flames reached the coastline and jumped Tuna Canyon Road, threatening Malibu.
Multiple structures burned, including buildings at Palisades Charter High School and Theatre Palisades. The Getty Villa museum remained closed, though its art collection was reported safe due to fire mitigation measures. Crews prioritized saving lives over structures, with reports of residents escaping flames in swimming pools.
Santa Ana winds, expected to worsen overnight, prompted emergency declarations by local and state officials. Governor Gavin Newsom secured federal assistance, with President Biden approving funding and offering continued support.
The Los Angeles Unified School District announced closures for multiple campuses, with plans for remote learning if conditions persist. Malibu schools in the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District will also remain closed Wednesday.
A smoke advisory is in effect until at least Wednesday evening, warning of unhealthy air quality in affected areas. Residents are advised to stay indoors, use N95 masks if necessary, and avoid activities that worsen air quality.
The fire's cause remains under investigation.
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