New round of evacuation orders lifted as LA mayor names chief recovery officer

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LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- At least 27 people are believed to be dead and more than a dozen others remain unaccounted for as multiple wildfires, fueled by severe drought conditions and strong Santa Ana winds, continue burning in Southern California.

The Palisades Fire, burning in the Pacific Palisades, and the Eaton Fire, burning in Altadena, have forced thousands to evacuate and destroyed more than 12,000 structures.

KABC logo
Jan 17, 2025, 5:42 PM

Wildfires burning in SoCal: Numbers at a glance

Here are all the current wildfires burning in Southern California at a glance.

Palisades Fire

  • 23,713 acres
  • 31% containment
  • 10 deaths
  • 5,316 structures burned

Eaton Fire in San Gabriel Valley

  • 14,117 acres
  • 65% contained
  • Approximately 7,081 structures believed to be damaged or destroyed (structures includes vehicles)
  • 17 deaths
  • 5 firefighter injuries

Hurst Fire in Sylmar

  • 799 acres
  • 100% contained

Auto Fire

  • 61 acres
  • 85% contained

Kenneth Fire in West Hills

  • 1,052 acres
  • 100% contained

KABC logo
Jan 16, 2025, 2:15 PM GMT

Fake fliers claiming to tow burned cars for free circulating around Pasadena

Officials with the city of Pasadena are issuing a warning about fake fliers that are circulating near burned homes, claiming to tow damaged vehicles at no cost.

The fliers, which were placed in the mailboxes of homes in the upper Hastings Ranch area, are likely part of a scheme to get your car.

Officials with the city of Pasadena are issuing a warning about fake fliers that are circulating near burned homes, claiming to tow damaged vehicles at no cost.

Lisa Derderian with the city of Pasadena said they've dialed the number on the flier and said it goes nowhere.

"If you're approached by contractors, by insurance, any vendor, vet it through the proper process, call the city, talk to an official government representative to ensure that it's legitimate, because unfortunately, after tragic situations, people prey on those that are most vulnerable, and we have an obligation to protect our community."

KABC logo
Jan 16, 2025, 2:15 PM GMT

Dodgers star Freddie Freeman donates $300,000 for wildfire relief efforts

Dodgers' star Freddie Freeman and his wife are donating thousands to help those impacted by the wildfires.

According to ESPN baseball columnist Jeff Passan, the couple is donating $300,000 to relief efforts, which includes $100,000 for the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, $100,000 for the Pasadena Fire Department and $100,000 for the Salvation Army.

Chelsea Freeman also shared in an Instagram story that she was matching donations to Pasadena Humane, according to the MLB.

Liz Nagy Image
Jan 16, 2025, 2:15 PM GMT

FBI working to piece together drone that damaged super scooper

The FBI released new photos of a damaged water-dropping super scooper firefighting aircraft that collided with a drone over the Palisades Fire.

According to officials, the plane collided with a privately-owned drone, causing significant damage to it. The drone put a 3x6 hole in the aircraft, causing a 20- to 30-minute delay in the aerial firefight.

According to officials, the plane collided with a privately-owned drone, causing significant damage to it.
KABC logo
Jan 16, 2025, 2:15 PM GMT

Bottled water distribution center to open for Pasadena, Altadena residents

A distribution center will open Sunday for Pasadena and Altadena residents looking for bottled water.

According to a post on the City of Pasadena's X account, the center is located at 450 N. Lake Ave. and will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

It's operated by the City of Pasadena in partnership with LA County Public Works.