Fires, encouraged by the Santa Ana winds, scattered across Los Angeles County on Tuesday, Jan. 8. The three largest were in the Palisades, Pasadena and San Fernando Valley. 

The Palisades Fire has been the most destructive of the three, destroying over 20,000 acres. The Eaton Fire in Pasadena had destroyed about 14,000 acres and the Hurst in San Fernando Valley destroyed about 800 acres.

Currently, the direct cause of each fire has not been identified by authorities. However, the two main theories being investigated is that the fires were caused intentionally or by utility lines. 

California is known for fires because of the dryness of the region. Although, these fires have been ranked as some of the most destructive in the state’s history according to Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, said, “The combination of low humidity, dry fuels and shifting winds has heightened the potential for spot fires and rapid expansion.”

Even though California is accustomed to fires, these have been harder to contain because of the added effects of the 60 to 70 mph Santa Ana winds.

As of January 13th, there have been 24 dead and more than 12,800 structures have been destroyed or damaged. The Palisades fire had destroyed 5,300 of the buildings, and around another 7,800 structures were estimated to be tarnished in the Eaton fire.

These estimates were made using aerial technology, and if accurate would make these fires the worst in LA history in regard to property damages.

LA Mayor Karen Bass said, “This is absolutely an unprecedented, historic firestorm.”

Authorities predict the death and damage toll to continue to rise even after the winds have died down.

Cal Fire said the best thing for residents to do is to be prepared with an evacuation plan. Be sure to know what to pack, where to go and how to get there safely.