The city full of stars has turned to ashes. Los Angeles, often known as the City of Angels, suffered some of the worst wildfires in California’s history during the month of January. Igniting Jan. 7, the fires burned nearly 40,000 acres of Los Angeles county.
Among several major fires, the Palisades and Eaton fires destroyed the most land, residences, and businesses. According to Cal Fire, The largest wildfire, the Palisades, started from a brush fire and burned about 24,000 acres and nearly 6,800 structures. The Eaton fire burned over 14,000 acres and almost 10,000 structures. These fires along with several minor fires claimed at least 29 lives with at least 22 people missing.
Nearly 200,000 people were under evacuation orders at the peak of the fire while firefighters, water bombers, water scoopers and helitankers worked to contain the fire. Aircraft were used to drop water and fire retardant, leaving some communities covered in pink dust. According to CBS News, over 1000 California inmates worked with firefighters around the clock and assisted with preventing the spread of the fire and helped at fire camps while being paid less than minimum wage.
With Los Angeles being at the heart of film and business, thousands of celebrities reside there and in surrounding counties. Stars such as Paris Hilton, Bella Hadid, Jaime Lee Curtis, Barbara Corcoran, Tyra Banks, Eugene Levy and hundreds more lost their homes in the fire. The total economic loss could be upwards of $50 billion, making it the most costly fire in US history.
In an effort to raise funds for those affected by the fire, several artists came together to perform a Fireaid concert. Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, Gracie Abrams, Tate McRae and Katy Perry among others performed Jan. 30. Raising over $60 million dollars, the performers recounted stories and sang ballads to honor what was lost. According to the New York Times, notable Californians were in the audience, with former Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff in attendance.
The LA fires burned over 16,000 homes and other structures, and displaced over 150,000 people. Companies from around the country have been stepping in to assist victims back on their feet. As of Feb. 1, the fires are 100% contained after burning for over three weeks.
More than 7,500 fighters and emergency crew members were dispatched to Los Angeles to fight the raging fires. (Photo/iStock)
Airbnb, the popular housing rental company, has provided free housing for those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. (Photo/iStock)
California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, has been making efforts toward streamlining the rebuilding process and returning residents to their normal. He has provided tax relief to victims of the fires, sent in federal hazmat crews to begin cleanup and signed an executive order to support small businesses and employees among various other actions. (Photo/iStock)
