Showing posts with label Palisades Fire. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Palisades Fire. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Crews Work in Rain to Mitigate Flooding and Mudslide Risks in Pacific Palisades After Fire

On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, crews from the California Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Sequoia Community Corps (SCC) worked in the rain installing sandbags, silt socks, and straw wattles as part of ongoing efforts to protect local watersheds following the Palisades Fire. Their work is essential in preventing hazardous contaminants from burned materials from entering the ocean and local water systems, especially with the increased risk of runoff due to rain. The CCC has deployed 26 teams across the state in collaboration with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). Their focus remains on mitigating environmental damage and preventing erosion. Given the proximity of fire-damaged properties to the coastline, their work is vital in safeguarding both environmental and public health. The Sequoia Community Corps (SCC) continues to play a key role in the recovery, offering vocational training in trades such as weatherization, urban forestry, conservation education, and recycling. For more than 34 years, SCC has provided over 4,000 young adults with job training and educational opportunities while supporting communities through disaster response efforts. The recent rainfall has heightened concerns over potential flooding and mudslides from the fire-scorched hillsides. With rain expected to continue, emergency crews are closely monitoring conditions to prevent further damage. The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, spread rapidly due to Santa Ana winds and drought conditions. The wildfire scorched more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and displaced 150,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley. The fire claimed at least five lives and left widespread devastation. High winds hindered containment efforts, allowing the flames to spread unchecked. While recent rainfall has helped extinguish lingering fire remnants, it has also raised new concerns about mudslides and debris flow. With evacuation orders lifted on January 27, recovery efforts are now focused on debris removal, utility restoration, and hazardous material disposal. Relief organizations, faith-based groups, and government agencies continue to play a crucial role in rebuilding and ensuring the safety of affected communities.

Saturday, February 1, 2025

𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗔𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗛𝗢𝗣𝗘:: Family Searches for Memories in Fire-Ravaged Palisades Home

On Saturday, February 1, 2025, a family dressed in white hazmat suits carefully sifted through the remains of their home on Via de la Paz in Pacific Palisades, searching for any personal belongings that may have survived the devastation. The fire had completely consumed their property, leaving behind only ashes and debris. The Palisades Fire, which erupted on January 7, 2025, quickly escalated into a disaster driven by powerful Santa Ana winds and prolonged drought conditions. The wildfire burned through more than 23,000 acres, reducing over 12,000 structures to ash and forcing the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and parts of the San Fernando Valley. At least five lives were lost, and many others suffered injuries. Efforts to contain the inferno were severely hindered by relentless winds, which grounded aerial firefighting operations and further fueled the flames. Though recent rainfall helped extinguish the fire, it also introduced new dangers, including mudslides and debris flow in the already devastated landscape. By January 27, authorities lifted evacuation orders, marking a significant step forward in the community’s recovery. As rebuilding efforts gain momentum, scenes like this one on Via de la Paz serve as a sobering reminder of the fire's widespread destruction. Utility crews and disaster recovery teams continue working tirelessly to restore essential services and clear debris, while families like this one take the first difficult steps toward rebuilding their homes and lives.

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Provides Spiritual Support in Pacific Palisades After Devastating Fire

Pacific Palisades, February 1, 2025: The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) has arrived in Pacific Palisades to offer prayers and emotional support to the community in the aftermath of the deadly Palisades Fire. Crisis-trained chaplains are on-site, providing spiritual care to residents coping with the destruction left by the wildfire.

Chaplain Randy Cole, a team leader coordinator with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, emphasized the role of the chaplains as a "ministry of presence," offering emotional and spiritual care in the wake of disaster. The team has been on the ground since the second day of the fires and plans to maintain a continued presence in the area. Chaplain Cole also highlighted their partnership with Samaritan's Purse, one of only two organizations authorized to assist in recovery efforts. Samaritan's Purse is providing free assistance to homeowners, helping them recover personal items regardless of insurance status or financial means.

During their time in Pacific Palisades, Chaplain Cole prayed for Santa Monica Closeup photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz, asking for protection, wisdom, and discernment in his work documenting the disaster. He also lifted up firefighters at Station 69 and all emergency personnel involved in the recovery process, praying for their safety and the difficult decisions they must make.

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team specializes in deploying chaplains to areas affected by both man-made and natural disasters. Originally formed after the 9/11 attacks, the team has since responded to crises across the country, offering comfort and prayer to victims, first responders, and local faith leaders. As forecasts predict increased winds in California, chaplains remain in the Los Angeles area, continuing their outreach to those struggling with loss and uncertainty.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades, quickly escalated into a catastrophic event fueled by fierce Santa Ana winds and extended drought conditions. The wildfire consumed more than 23,000 acres, reduced over 12,000 structures to ash, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents from Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and sections of the San Fernando Valley. The fire claimed at least five lives and left many others injured. Firefighting efforts were hindered by powerful winds that grounded aerial support, allowing the flames to spread rapidly.

Although recent rainfall has helped contain the fire, it has also introduced new hazards, including mudslides and debris flow in the burned areas. By January 27, evacuation orders were lifted, marking a significant shift toward recovery. Efforts are now focused on debris removal, utility restoration, and providing emotional and spiritual support for those affected. The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team remains committed to offering compassion and guidance as the community begins the long process of healing and rebuilding.

𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘: A Family's Search for Memories After the Palisades Fire


On Saturday, February 1, 2025, a family clad in white hazmat suits carefully searched through the remains of their home on Galloway Street in Pacific Palisades, hoping to salvage personal items from the rubble. The family, who had lived in the house for over 20 years, returned to the site for the first time since the devastating Palisades Fire destroyed their property, leaving only ashes and debris in its wake. The family intends to rebuild their home.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, quickly escalated into a catastrophic event fueled by fierce Santa Ana winds and extended drought conditions. The wildfire ravaged more than 23,000 acres, reduced over 12,000 structures to ash, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and sections of the San Fernando Valley. The fire claimed at least five lives and left many others injured.

Efforts to contain the blaze faced significant challenges due to strong winds that grounded aerial firefighting support and further spread the flames. While recent rainfall helped extinguish the fire, it also introduced new risks, including mudslides and debris flow in the already devastated areas. By January 27, evacuation orders were lifted, marking a crucial turning point in the recovery process.

As rebuilding efforts begin, scenes like this one on Galloway Street are a stark reminder of the fire's profound impact on the community. Utility crews and disaster recovery teams continue working tirelessly to restore essential services and clear debris, while residents like this family begin the painstaking process of piecing their lives back together.

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Shohei Ohtani Steers Fire Truck During Dodgers' Visit to Pacific Palisades Firefighters!

PACIFIC PALISADES, CA — Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, alongside teammates Emmet Sheehan and Ben Casparius, paid a visit to Los Angeles Fire Station 69 on Thursday, January 30, 2025, as part of the Dodgers Love LA Community Tour presented by Bank of America. The visit came in the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7 and scorched over 23,000 acres across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and sections of the San Fernando Valley. The wildfire, fueled by relentless Santa Ana winds and prolonged drought conditions, resulted in 12,000 structures destroyed, the displacement of 150,000 residents, and at least five fatalities. Though recent rainfall has helped extinguish the flames, it has also increased the risk of mudslides in the burned areas. With evacuation orders lifted on January 27, recovery efforts, including debris removal and utility restoration, are now underway. During their visit, the Dodgers players toured the fire station, met with firefighters and paramedics, and expressed their gratitude for their heroic efforts. Ohtani climbed into the tiller bucket of a fire truck, helping steer the massive rig through the Palisades, while his teammates rode along and jumped on fire engines for a closer look at the department’s operations. As part of their community outreach, the Dodgers also donated $350,000 and an additional $10,000 to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, providing critical support for firefighting resources, equipment, and training. The Dodgers Love LA Tour continues with stops across the city, honoring first responders and giving back to the community through various charitable initiatives.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

California Conservation Corps Works to Protect Ocean from Contamination in Malibu Fire Recovery

On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, crews from the California Conservation Corps (CCC) were seen installing silt socks, straw wattles, and silt fencing around fire-damaged properties and vehicles at Malibu Beach. The effort is part of the CCC’s ongoing mission to protect local watersheds following the Pacific Palisades Fire.

The Palisades Fire, which broke out on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades, quickly escalated into a catastrophic event due to fierce Santa Ana winds and prolonged drought conditions. The wildfire burned more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents from Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and parts of the San Fernando Valley. At least five lives were lost, and many others were injured. Powerful winds hampered firefighting efforts, grounding aerial support and allowing the flames to spread rapidly. While recent rainfall helped extinguish the fire, it also created new hazards, including the threat of mudslides and debris flows in the already devastated region. By January 27, 2025, evacuation orders were lifted, allowing recovery efforts such as debris removal and utility restoration to begin.

According to California Conservation Corps (CCC) Public Information Officer Chris Van Horne, the CCC has deployed 26 teams from across the state in collaboration with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). Crews from the Tahoe and Solano centers are working to mitigate environmental damage caused by the fire. These measures aim to prevent hazardous contaminants from burned materials from entering watersheds and the ocean, a task especially critical in Malibu due to the proximity of fire-damaged properties to the coastline. With rain and runoff posing a significant threat to the area’s waterways, the CCC’s efforts are vital for safeguarding environmental and public health.

The CCC, an emergency response agency with nearly 50 years of experience, engages young adults aged 18 to 25 in paid service to the state. These crews, who typically focus on forestry and trail work, have been mobilized to assist in recovery efforts across Los Angeles County. Their efforts in Malibu are part of Cal OES’s Watershed and Debris Flow Task Force and represent an important first step in the region’s recovery.

For more information about the California Conservation Corps and its initiatives, visit ccc.ca.gov.

Sunday, January 26, 2025

Angel of Hope: Artist Honors Palisades Fire Heroes with Stunning Mural on Santa Monica Beach

On a rainy Sunday, January 26, 2025, artist Kuba Skrzypek (@skrzypekstudio) a wall at Perry's Beach Café into a powerful tribute to the resilience and heroism of Los Angeles firefighters. The mural, featuring a firefighter rescuing a woman with angelic wings, symbolizes the city's enduring spirit in the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire. Skrzypek, a visiting artist from Poland, took to the brush during his short vacation in Los Angeles. The wings on the woman are a nod to the City of Angels, while the mural serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery displayed during the fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025. Later that evening, Skrzypek was set to head to the airport to return to Poland. The Palisades Fire left an indelible mark on the community, scorching over 23,000 acres, destroying more than 12,000 structures, and displacing over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. As recovery efforts continue, this mural captures the hope and strength of a city still healing. Skrzypek’s artwork not only immortalizes the heroism of first responders but also provides a focal point for reflection and unity amid the ongoing rebuilding efforts.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Miniature Horse Plays Keyboard to Bring Smiles to Evacuated Residents of Palisades Fire

On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, residents waiting in line to be escorted back to their homes by LAPD as part of the Palisades Fire repopulation efforts received an unexpected dose of joy. Victoria Nodiff-Netanel, founder of Mini Therapy Horses, visited the site with her eight-year-old miniature therapy horse, Blue Moon, to bring smiles to those impacted by the devastating fire.

Blue Moon, a highly trained miniature horse, entertained residents by playing the keyboard, offering a brief moment of lightheartedness in the midst of recovery. “It’s hard not to smile when you see a horse playing a keyboard, no matter what’s happened,” said Nodiff-Netanel.

Mini Therapy Horses, a non-profit organization founded in 2008, is a recognized leader in equine-assisted activities (EAA) and equine-assisted therapy (EAT) with miniature horses. Their dedicated teams regularly visit hospitals, veterans' facilities, family shelters, and other organizations to provide comfort and support to individuals in need. Some of their frequent stops include Shriners for Children Medical Center, Ronald McDonald Houses in Pasadena and Los Angeles, and UCLA Medical Centers in Santa Monica and Westwood.

In addition to regular visits, Mini Therapy Horses is part of the Los Angeles Mayor’s Crisis Response Team (CRT). The organization’s highly trained teams respond to traumatic incidents, offering resources and support to survivors. They have assisted in major crises, including the San Bernardino, Las Vegas, and Thousand Oaks mass shootings, as well as the Woolsey Fire.

Mini Therapy Horses’ work has gained widespread recognition, with appearances in the Rose Parade® and features in People Magazine, National Geographic, and The Kelly Clarkson Show. Their mission is to bring calm, comfort, and happiness to those experiencing trauma, a purpose they fulfill with professionalism and compassion.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, burned over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Recovery efforts remain ongoing, with agencies and organizations like Mini Therapy Horses providing essential support to those affected.

As residents continue to navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives, the presence of Blue Moon and the Mini Therapy Horses team offers a heartwarming reminder of resilience, kindness, and the healing power of a small act of care.

Monday, January 20, 2025

California Highway Patrol Officers (CHP) Escort Residents Back to Pacific Palisades After Fire Evacuations

On Monday, January 20, 2025, California Highway Patrol officers escorted convoys of residents along the Pacific Coast Highway to the Pacific Palisades Highlands as part of the repopulation process. Residents were first directed to Parking Lot 3 North at 1150 Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, where Los Angeles Police officers verified their identification to confirm residency before allowing access to their homes in the Palisades.

Repopulation efforts follow the Los Angeles Fire Department’s (LAFD) announcement on Sunday, January 19, reducing evacuation orders to resident-only access for Zones LOS-0767-J and LOS-0767-G. Residents in Zone LOS-0767-J are required to participate in escorted convoys, conducted daily between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., to safely navigate back to their properties.

Evacuation zones LOS-0767-J include areas north of Santa Ynez Road, south of Temescal Fire Road, east of E Topanga Fire Road and Colina Drive, and west of Temescal Fire Road. Zone LOS-0767-G covers areas north of Observation Drive, south of Topanga Canyon Boulevard, east of Montau Drive, and west of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

Residents must present proof of residency, such as a photo ID with their name and physical address, to gain access. Officials urge residents to have documents ready to ensure smooth verification and efficient repopulation.

Meanwhile, evacuation warnings for additional zones, including LOS-0767-C, LOS-0767-B, LOS-Q0762-A, and LOS-Q0762-C, have been lifted, allowing those residents to return without restrictions.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Recovery efforts remain ongoing, with search and rescue teams, utility workers, and local agencies working to restore essential services and clear debris to pave the way for rebuilding.

As residents begin returning, officials remind the public to exercise caution and adhere to all safety guidelines as recovery and rebuilding efforts continue. For more information and updates on evacuation zones, visit the Los Angeles Fire Department’s website.

Hazmat Teams Tackle Burnt Properties Along PCH in Malibu After Palisades Fire

On Monday, January 20, 2025, Hazmat technicians from GrayMar Environmental Services, Inc. were spotted in Malibu working on the fire-ravaged properties along the Pacific Coast Highway near Topanga Canyon Road. These properties, including the Malibu Feed Bin, Rosenthal Malibu Winery, and Topanga Ranch Motel, were among the many businesses completely destroyed by the devastating Palisades Fire.

GrayMar's crew was seen carefully collecting hazardous materials such as propane tanks and outdoor heaters, along with other debris, as part of the cleanup process. Their work ensures that hazardous items are safely removed, a critical step in preparing the area for rebuilding.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, burned through over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. The scale of the devastation has made environmental cleanup and recovery efforts, like those led by GrayMar, essential to restoring the community.

GrayMar Environmental Services is a leading provider of safe, cost-effective solutions for complex environmental challenges. With over five decades of combined experience, their highly trained personnel specialize in tackling high-profile environmental projects with professionalism and innovation. Their work in Malibu is part of their mission to deliver practical solutions while ensuring the safety and sustainability of impacted areas.

Sunday, January 19, 2025

California Highway Patrol Officers Tow Burnt Vehicles Along PCH in Malibu After Devastating Blaze

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers worked along the Pacific Coast Highway to remove vehicles destroyed in the Palisades Fire. The vehicles, burnt beyond recognition, required meticulous efforts to identify their owners before being towed. Officers carefully located and verified the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) to match them with registered owners. These vehicles were among the countless losses caused by the Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025. The fire ravaged over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. The removal of burnt vehicles is a critical step in the ongoing recovery process, ensuring that Pacific Coast Highway is cleared for safe travel and infrastructure restoration. This effort complements broader search and recovery operations, including debris clearance, identifying remains, and preparing the region for rebuilding. As work progresses, residents and motorists are urged to remain patient and vigilant as recovery teams, including CHP and other agencies, continue their efforts to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

Cadaver Dogs Deployed as Search Teams Examine Fire-Ravaged Homes on Malibu’s Pacific Coast Highway

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, a multi-agency task force comprising 30 highly traine d members   from Regional Task Force 12 (RTF-12) and their K9 units, including several cadaver dogs, were deployed to Malibu. Their mission: to assist in the aftermath of the devastating fires, focusing on a stretch of homes along the Pacific Coast Highway that were completely destroyed.

RTF-12, an Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team based in Santa Barbara County, specializes in responding to large-scale disasters such as earthquakes, structural collapses, and other incidents requiring heavy rescue equipment. For this deployment, the team included personnel from Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara City, Santa Maria, and Vandenberg Fire Departments, with additional support from the Alhambra City Fire Department.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. As recovery efforts continue, the work of search and rescue teams is vital for identifying remains, clearing debris, and laying the groundwork for rebuilding.

RTF-12’s deployment showcases the critical role of urban search and rescue teams in post-disaster scenarios. By combining the expertise of firefighters, medical professionals, engineers, and K9 search units, the task force demonstrates the power of coordinated emergency response.

Residents affected by the fire are encouraged to remain patient and stay informed as local, regional, and state teams work tirelessly to restore safety and assist in recovery efforts.