California is grappling with fast-moving wildfires that have engulfed the Los Angeles area, forcing the evacuation of over 80,000 residents. The Palisades Fire has already consumed nearly 3,000 acres, while the Eaton Fire has scorched 1,000 acres and the Hurst Fire another 500 acres. None of the fires are contained, and while no fatalities have been reported, injuries—including at least one firefighter—have been confirmed.
The blazes were triggered by a dangerous mix of dry conditions and strong winds, which are expected to intensify overnight. Firefighters, already stretched thin, are working tirelessly to protect lives and property. However, efforts in some areas are hindered by a lack of water pressure in local hydrants.
Amid the chaos, Chabad of Pacific Palisades successfully evacuated all its Sifrei Torah to safety B’chasdei Hahem. While the fate of the Chabad House remains uncertain—live feeds showed flames encroaching on the property—Rabbi Sholom Diskin expressed hope and resilience: “Thank G-d we’re safe. With G-d’s help, we are certain our community will survive and rebuild stronger than ever.” Chabad representatives have also been assisting seniors and others in evacuating as the fires rapidly advance.
State and federal leaders are mobilizing resources to combat the crisis. Governor Gavin Newsom stated, “Mutual aid is pouring in from across the state… Hundreds of additional firefighters are headed south to join the 1,400+ boots already on the ground.”
President Joe Biden affirmed his commitment to the firefighting efforts, saying, “My Administration will do everything it can to support the response… FEMA has approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to help suppress the terrible Pacific Palisades fire and reimburse California for immediate firefighting costs. I urge residents to stay vigilant and listen to local officials.”
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass thanked the President, saying, “Thank you for your continued support and ensuring that resources are available for Angelenos impacted by this fire.”
As firefighters work through the night, the priority remains protecting lives and homes from these relentless wind-driven flames.
We hope and we pray that all Californians are safe and that these raging fires are able to be contained in due time!
I am being frequently briefed on the wildfires in west Los Angeles. My team and I are in touch with state and local officials, and I have offered any federal assistance that is needed to help suppress the terrible Pacific Palisades fire. Earlier tonight, FEMA approved a Fire…
— President Biden (@POTUS) January 8, 2025
Mutual aid is pouring in from across the state to battle the #PalisadesFire, #EatonFire & #HurstFire.
Hundreds of additional firefighters are headed south to join 1,400+ boots already on the ground.
Thank you to our first responders quickly jumping into these firefights.
— Governor Newsom (@CAgovernor) January 8, 2025
Two men and a dog were trapped inside a home in the Pacific Palisades when the 2,900-acre fire hit their area https://t.co/pN4zPeW4FR pic.twitter.com/PoQ24oufKS
— FOX 11 Los Angeles (@FOXLA) January 8, 2025
KTLA’s Sandra Mitchell takes viewers along the PCH during the Palisades Fire, seeing a utility pole, debris and flames along the shutdown highway. Details: https://t.co/egkx6v231f pic.twitter.com/MnDkMR6qs7
— KTLA (@KTLA) January 8, 2025
“We came from Huntington Palisades and there were so many homes destroyed along Sunset Boulevard,” KTLA’s Sandra Mitchell reports from the #PalisadesFire. “It just took my breath away.” Live Updates: https://t.co/pAlVjlCqi8 pic.twitter.com/HTNVwOmZjk
— KTLA (@KTLA) January 8, 2025
Multiple explosions are seen from KTLA’s Carlos Saucedo’s live report from the 800 block of Radcliffe Avenue in the #PacificPalisades as the #PalisadesFire continues to grow on Tuesday night. Details: https://t.co/egkx6v231f pic.twitter.com/h8rdk6i7kh
— KTLA (@KTLA) January 8, 2025
ABC News’ Linsey Davis speaks with Rabbi Zushe Cunin about the damage to the Chabad Jewish Community Center of Pacific Palisades.
Some of the Menorahs that were in the parking lot were burned, as were some vehicles, but the building was heroically saved by the fire department. pic.twitter.com/6s7n94RKwo
— Frum TikTok (@FrumTikTok) January 8, 2025