In Los Angeles (L.A.,) California, wildfires have been raging through the area, causing loss of life and billions of dollars in damages.
On Jan. 7, 2025, the Palisades and Eaton wildfires began to blaze through Los Angeles, California. The destruction began in the Pacific Palisades, a neighborhood in Los Angeles, starting out as a brushfire and soon evolving into a massive wildfire. The Eaton wildfire quickly followed suit, engulfing over 23,000 acres by the time it was almost completely contained. A series of other fires emerged as L.A. firefighters attempted to combat the blaze.
Within days of the fires’ eruption, schools, homes and businesses were destroyed. Marquez Charter Elementary School was destroyed in the Eaton wildfire, leaving nothing but charred remains in its wake. The beloved Bunny Museum in Altadena, California fell victim to the blaze as well after 25 years in business. Heartwarmingly, people have begun to donate rabbit themed items so that one day the museum may be able to rebuild its collection. Many celebrities have also been affected by the wildfires. One of the most notable is Paris Hilton, who shared on social media that she witnessed her home in Malibu burn to the ground on live television. In response, Hilton announced a nonprofit to support families with young children who had been displaced due to the fire. Within 72 hours, the organization had raised $800,000 for these families and relief efforts.
On Jan. 22, 2025, another fire broke out near the Castaic Lake area. By the time the blaze was 98% contained, it had already consumed over 10,000 acres of land. This has become known as the Hughes wildfire. Most recently, the FireAid benefit concert took place on Jan. 30, 2025 in two separate locations in order to raise money and awareness for those affected by the L.A. wildfires. Over two dozen of the hottest names in music came to support the cause. This included the likes of Stevie Nicks, Billie Eilish and Lady Gaga. There was even a surprise appearance by former Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff, as they appeared in the crowd to show their support for Los Angeles residents.
Los Angeles residents are currently trying to return to their daily lives, but with the destruction left in the wake of this series of wildfires, only time will tell.
