The catastrophic wildfires ravaging the Greater Los Angeles area have claimed thousands of homes, including those of three-time Jamaican Olympian Dr. Una Morris and Grammy-nominated Jamaican-American singer Masego.
Dr. Morris, 77, who represented Jamaica at the 1964, 1968, and 1972 Olympic Games, lost her Altadena home to the Eaton Fire, which began Tuesday, January 7, and has scorched nearly 14,000 acres. According to Nationwide News, she narrowly escaped the flames, driving through thick smoke as her house was engulfed.
Meanwhile, Masego, the acclaimed musician behind hits like Tadow, shared the aftermath of the Palisades Fire on social media, posting images of his destroyed home and car. “I’m safe and far away from the fires,” he assured fans, while expressing deep sorrow for the personal losses caused by the disaster, which has swept through areas including the Hollywood Hills.
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Celebrities such as Paris Hilton, actors Bily Crystal, Adam Brody, Jeff Bridges, Mel Gibson, and countless others have also lost their homes.
The fires have devastated Los Angeles County, where more than 10,000 properties have been destroyed, leaving entire neighborhoods flattened. At least 11 people have died according to CNN, with officials warning the death toll may rise as access to some areas remains restricted. Over 100,000 residents are under evacuation orders, and tens of thousands more are on high alert.
Wildfires still burning
Six major fires are active across the region, though progress is being made in containing some:
- Palisades Fire: The largest blaze erupted on January 7 in Pacific Palisades, burning more than 21,000 acres. As of Saturday, January 11, it is 8% contained.
- Eaton Fire: Starting on January 7, this fire has ravaged northern Los Angeles, including Altadena, consuming 14,000 acres. It remains 3% contained.
- Hurst Fire: Breaking out on the evening of January 7 north of San Fernando, it has burned 771 acres. As of January 10, it is 70% contained.
- Kenneth Fire: This fire began on January 9 near the Los Angeles-Ventura county border. It has burned 1,000 acres and is 50% contained.
- Lidia Fire: Igniting on January 8 in Acton, it covered 400 acres and reached 98% containment by January 10.
- Archer Fire: The most recent fire started on January 10 in Granada Hills. It spans 19 acres and is not yet contained.
The earlier Sunset, Woodley, and Olivas fires have been contained.
Strained resources and growing concerns
The fires have been fueled by an exceptionally dry period and powerful Santa Ana winds, which create conditions ripe for destruction. With gusts reaching up to 100 mph, flames spread rapidly, turning smoldering embers into raging infernos in minutes.
California’s Governor has called for an independent investigation into why some hydrants lost water pressure during critical firefighting efforts. A CNN review cited stretched resources as a major challenge for emergency crews.
President Joe Biden acknowledged the progress made by firefighters but cautioned that winds would continue to pose a threat until early next week. Investigations into the causes of the fires are ongoing, with Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman pledging to prosecute any instances of arson.
“These fires are a stark reminder of how fragile life and property can be in the face of natural disasters,” Hochman said. “Our immediate focus is on saving lives and homes, but we will hold anyone responsible for starting these fires accountable.”
Forbes Magazine reported that the Los Angeles police arrested an unnamed man who was allegedly spotted attempting to light a fire in the city’s Woodland Hills area, near the Kenneth fire. However, law enforcement officials have said they cannot confirm a connection between the arson suspect and any of the deadly fires currently burning through California.
