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yesterday

One Year On, L.A. Fire Survivors Mark Loss and Demand Help as Recovery Lags

Survivors pressed utilities, insurers and officials for housing relief, citing lagging rebuilding.

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FILE: An aerial view of properties in Altadena, Calif., that have been cleared of wildfire debris following the Eaton Fire, shown on May 22, 2025. 
An aerial view of homes being rebuilt amid cleared lots where homes were destroyed by the Palisades Fire nearly one year ago on December 27, 2025 in Pacific Palisades.
A before and after view of Linsey Grunes’ property in Altadena, Calif. 

Overview

  • California lowered flags and communities held memorials and rallies in Pacific Palisades and Altadena to honor 31 victims and press for action.
  • Roughly 70% of survivors remain displaced, with nonprofit data showing widespread depleted savings and new debt a year later.
  • Rebuilding remains slow: the City of L.A. reports 1,448 permits issued for 689 addresses in the Palisades area, while the county shows 1,192 permits issued and 440 homes started with only a handful completed.
  • Accountability fights intensified as survivors cited Southern California Edison’s acknowledgment that its equipment likely started the Eaton Fire and the Justice Department’s negligence lawsuit against the utility.
  • Officials highlighted new steps and outstanding needs, with Gov. Gavin Newsom extending protections and housing investments this week and local leaders urging President Trump to approve tens of billions in federal aid.