Palisades and Eaton Fires Leave 29 Dead, Thousands of Homes Destroyed in Los Angeles

The January wildfires have caused unprecedented destruction, with nearly full containment reported as recovery efforts begin.

The Palisades and Eaton Fires burned over 37,000 acres combined, killing 29 people and destroying more than 14,000 structures, making it one of the most devastating wildfire events in Los Angeles history.
Cal Fire reports the Palisades Fire is 98% contained and the Eaton Fire 99% contained as of Friday, January 31, 2025, signaling the fires are nearing full control.
Extreme drought conditions, powerful Santa Ana winds, and low humidity created an environment conducive to rapid fire spread, with wind gusts reaching up to 99 mph in some areas.
Evacuations displaced over 130,000 residents, with some forced to flee multiple times; many families are now grappling with homelessness and financial loss.
California officials estimate damages from the fires could exceed $50 billion, with insurance claims and rebuilding efforts expected to take years.