Thousands of Californians Flee Massive Palisades Fire Fueled by Strong Winds

Coastal homes were seen burning in Pacific Palisades as the fire continues to rage.
Thousands of Californians Flee Massive Palisades Fire Fueled by Strong Winds
A brush fire burns near homes in Pacific Palisafes, Calif., on Jan. 7, 2025. David Swanson/AFP via Getty Images
Jill McLaughlin
Updated:
0:00

A fast-moving wildfire erupted in the Southern California coastal city of Pacific Palisades, about 20 miles west of Los Angeles, destroying homes as Santa Ana winds ripped through the region Jan. 7.

The Palisades Fire burned an unknown number of homes in the city as thousands of residents were forced to flee.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.