Return of strong winds to Los Angeles threatens area's fight against fires

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LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- At least 25 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 to rage across Southern California, leaving fire crews scrambling to contain the historic destruction.

Key Headlines in the last 24 hours

Here's how the news is developing.
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Jan 15, 2025, 3:59 AM

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
  • 18% containment
  • 9 deaths
  • 5,316 structures burned

Eaton Fire in San Gabriel Valley

  • 14,117 acres
  • 35% contained
  • Approximately 7,081 structures believed to be damaged or destroyed (structures includes vehicles)
  • 16 deaths
  • 5 firefighter injuries

Hurst Fire in Sylmar

  • 799 acres
  • 97% contained

Auto Fire

  • 61 acres
  • 47% contained

Kenneth Fire in West Hills

  • 1,052 acres
  • 100% contained

Anabel Munoz Image
2:31 AM GMT

3 generations of Black families lose 7 homes to Eaton Fire

When the wind-driven Eaton Fire whipped through Altadena, it didn't just destroy neighborhoods, it wiped away part of the rich history of the city.

Decades ago, when the illegal and discriminatory practice of redlining was widespread, parts of Altadena were open for people of color to buy homes. As a result, generations of Black families planted roots there.

During the illegal and discriminatory practice of redlining, generations of Black families put down roots in Altadena where they could buy homes.

"You've got three generations," said Altadena resident Pauline Daniels. "And we are Daniels, Franklin, Hughes and we have an element that's not here: Freeney."

Between these families, seven homes were destroyed.

Click here for the full story to take a look at the rich Black history of Altadena.

2:06 AM GMT

LA Phil trumpet player loses home in Eaton Fire

A musician with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and his family lost their home to the Eaton Fire.

Trumpet player Christopher Still told Eyewitness News he and the family evacuated with their dogs, go bags and the clothes on their backs in just five minutes. He said though it's all replaceable, as a family of professional musicians, their musical instruments have great sentimental value and, unfortunately, they've lost nearly two dozen instruments.

Trying to stay positive, Still and his family are hanging on to the memories they made together over the years jamming out -- and to the new ones rising from the ashes of their community coming together. Still said they're incredibly grateful for the support his family has received from the LA Phil and his sponsor, Yamaha.

A musician with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and his family lost their home to the Eaton Fire.
1:53 AM GMT

'Super scooper' cleared to fly after drone collision

A "super scooper" that was damaged by a drone last week while helping fight the Palisades Fire was cleared to fly Tuesday.

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.

A "super scooper" that was damaged by a drone last week while helping fight the Palisades Fire was cleared to fly Tuesday.

The collision grounded the firefighting plane for several days.

The low-flying, surface-skimming planes dip into the water before dumping its contents over blazing wildfires.

The FBI is investigating the incident.

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1:41 AM GMT

Eaton Fire came within feet from vital Mount Wilson towers

We're getting a look at just how close the Eaton Fire came to vital communications towers at Mount Wilson.

A photo posted on X shows how the fire came within mere feet from the lifesaving communications equipment last Thursday.

Thanks to prior fuel treatment by the Angeles National Forest and the work of firefighters, the equipment was not damaged.

Firefighters continue to monitor and protect the area.

The photo shows how the Eaton Fire came within mere feet from the lifesaving communications equipment at Mount Wilson.