Thousands of firefighters, first responders, and National Guard personnel are battling devastating Los Angeles wildfires, among the worst in California’s history.
The Palisades and Eaton Fires, burning for ten days, have destroyed 12,000 structures, claimed at least 27 lives, and scorched nearly 40,000 acres (including smaller, extinguished fires). These rank as the second and fourth most destructive fires in the state’s history.
Experts note similarities between these fires and the destructive 2018 Camp Fire, but the Los Angeles fires are unique due to their rapid spread and urban nature—burning through structures, using buildings as fuel rather than primarily trees.
“Wind conditions carry embers over a mile, igniting flammable materials in homes and neighborhoods,” explains California state marshal Daniel Berlant. The 2020 August Complex Fire burned over 1 million acres but damaged only 935 structures. The 2021 Dixie Fire, also in Northern California, had similar acreage damage, affecting just over 1,300 structures. These remain the two largest California wildfires.
The Dixie and August Complex Fires occurred during the typical spring-to-fall wildfire season. However, climate change has extended the wildfire threat year-round. “In less than a decade, California has seen its largest, most damaging, and deadliest wildfires,” says Berlant. “Our climate naturally lends itself to wildfires, but recently, a combination of factors has created this immense crisis, including climate change.” The recent fires’ rapid spread is attributed to Southern California’s lack of rainfall and winds exceeding 80 miles per hour.
Increased aid for firefighters has been implemented. In 2024, CalFire received a budget increase of 47% since 2018, doubling its personnel. Efforts focus on fire response, community preparedness, and forest restoration. As of Friday, the Palisades and Eaton Fires are 31% and 65% contained, respectively, though stronger winds are forecast.
U.S. Fire administrator Lori Moore-Merrell states that while the death toll is still uncertain, early warnings based on anticipated weather conditions likely saved lives. “We anticipated the Santa Ana winds and drought, so we knew a fire would be severe,” she says. “Early evacuation warnings were heeded, preventing a drastic increase in fatalities, unlike the Paradise Fire or the 2023 Lahaina Maui Fire.” Improvements in evacuation messaging and traffic management are needed, however.
State officials are seeking increased funding to combat wildfires. California Gov. Gavin Newsom requested $2.5 billion for emergency response and recovery in Los Angeles on January 13. This would aid in rebuilding schools and improving preparedness. FEMA provided a $770 stipend for essential items and offers further disaster assistance and local aid centers. FEMA did not respond to TIME’s request for comment.
While California wildfires are a natural occurrence, the threat of urban conflagrations extends beyond the state. Moore-Merrell notes this is the third urban conflagration under the Biden Administration. The others were the 2021 Marshall Fire in Colorado (6,000+ acres, 1,000 homes) and the August 2023 Lahaina Fire in Maui (over 100 deaths, extensive damage). The Maui fire was the fifth deadliest U.S. wildland fire. “Wildfire risk is increasing nationwide,” she concludes.