'Not out of the woods': Fire-scarred LA braces for another round of dangerous winds

Last updated: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 10:33PM GMT
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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.

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Jan 15, 2025, 7:58 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
  • 19% containment
  • 9 deaths
  • 5,316 structures burned

Eaton Fire in San Gabriel Valley

  • 14,117 acres
  • 45% 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

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2 hours and 45 minutes ago

Japan donates $2 million to SoCal wildfire recovery efforts

Japan is donating $2 million to victims of the devastating L.A. County wildfires through the American Red Cross, officials announced on Wednesday.

"Japan will actively provide assistance for the relief of the victims and the earliest possible recovery of the affected areas,'' according to a statement from the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles

On Monday, Consul General Kenko Sone issued a message of condolence to the area.

"A heartbreaking and tragic week has passed since the Palisades and Eaton Fires started on January 7th. Struggles continue. The devastation and challenges are beyond our imagination,'' Sone wrote.

"Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the fires...Even under such difficult circumstances, it is encouraging to see so many organizations, volunteers, and individuals donating food, supplies and time to help with ongoing efforts. The perseverance and resilience of Angelenos is amazing and what the City of Angels represents.

"Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles is now working with Japanese and Japanese American businesses and communities to join these relief efforts. Japan is a nation that has experienced natural disasters and we are thankful for the generous support supplied by Southern California when it was needed the most. We stand with you all to support immediate needs and will do our best to collaborate with authorities, communities, and all of you to rebuild communities devastated by the fires,'' the message continued.

MORE: SoCal Wildfires - How You Can Help

City News Service contributed to this report.

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2 hours and 45 minutes ago

Air quality: Dust and ash advisory issued for LA County amid fires, wind

A dust and ash advisory has been issued for Los Angeles County until 7 p.m. Wednesday "due to harmful particle pollution levels from windblown dust and ash" as the Eaton and Palisades fire continue to burn.

This pollution can embed deep into the lungs and cause health problems including heart disease symptoms, asthma attacks and an increased risk for respiratory infections.

A dust and ash advisory has been issued for L.A. County until 7 p.m. Wednesday "due to harmful particle pollution levels from windblown dust and ash."

Health experts and public officials have urged those impacted by the fires to protect themselves from air pollution carried by these winds by staying indoors, wearing protective equipment when needed and taking steps to purify air in the home.

You'll also want to keep your eyes safe, so wear goggles or some sort of eye protection.

MORE: Here's what to know about air quality issues from SoCal fires

ABC News contributed to this report.

2 hours and 45 minutes ago

Tax filing deadline extended for LA County residents due to fires

As a result of the devastation caused by the Los Angeles-area wildfires, residents countywide will have additional time this year to file their federal and state income taxes.

Normally set on April 15, the tax filing deadline for Los Angeles County residents and businesses will now be Oct. 15, according to the Internal Revenue Service and the governor's office.

2 hours and 45 minutes ago

More than 200 JPL employees lose home in fires

More than 200 employees at Jet Propulsion Laboratory have been impacted by the Southern California fires, according to Director Laurie Leshin.

She posted a statement on X Tuesday, saying the employees had "lost everything."

She also said the lab remains closed except for essential activities, saying she will share more on Thursday.

"We will ensure the Lab is safe before fully reopening & ensure those in need of extra flexibility are supported," Leshin wrote. "Sending love and strength to our whole community. Thanks to all who have supported the relief fund so far!"

A Caltech and JPL Disaster Relief Fund has been set up to help wildfire victims. To learn more, click here.