LA Wildfires A Crisis Unfolding 

Since the seventh of January, rapid wildfires have spread throughout California, endangering countless residents. News outlets have reported that the three areas mainly affected are Los Angeles, Riverside, and Ventura, while the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Departments like the CAL FIRE San Bernardino-Inyo-Mono Unit, Los Angeles County Fire Department, and others focus on containing the fire and evacuating residents. The New York Times claims that about 92,000 people are under evacuation orders, and the death toll is over 20. Most California residents have been evacuated or anxiously waiting for the evacuation order. California residents and other U.S. citizens are concerned about how the authorities plan to contain this fire.  Statistics based on the California fire of 2018 show an estimate of one month for the suppression of the fire.

“I’m worried about some of my family members who live in California,” said DBHS sophomore Adin Julien.  

 The local government has been trying to help, Governor Newsom proposed that California provide at least $2.5 billion in additional funding for ongoing emergency response efforts and to jumpstart recovery efforts for Los Angeles. The funding will support recovery and cleanup, additional wildfire preparedness, and reopening schools shuttered by the fires. There are also several shelters for people who lost their homes. There are claims that an estimated 12,000 people have lost their homes and other structures.

“My parents donated money to the people in LA,” said sophomore Skarleth Cruz-Lazo  

Donating is a great way to support victims of the fire. Pasadena Humane, Salvation Army, World Central Kitchen, United Way of Greater Los Angeles, and many other organizations are asking for monetary donations. These donations are needed to buy supplies, emergency items, food, and water for victims of the fires. These donations go toward helping the homeless, people who have lost their homes, pets affected by the fire, and others in need. Popular celebrities and businesses like Beyoncé, Google, Paris Hilton, and Disney have donated to organizations helping victims of the California fires.    

During this time of struggle, much is unclear. As the death toll rises, residents grow increasingly worried. Many people are working to stop the fire and recover what was lost. People unable to volunteer can donate money to humanitarian organizations like The Red Cross or The California Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund. As this devastating event continues to impact California local communities, authorities, and outside forces must work together to contain the fires and rebuild what was destroyed. 

Written by Camila Castro  | Graphic Designed by Camila Castro 

Published January 2, 2025 | ePathfinder | Feature