The Palisades Fire continues to pose significant challenges, driven by strong winds and topographical factors. Fire activity remains intense, with wind-driven and upslope runs observed, along with short-range spotting. Gusts up to 40 mph were recorded through Thursday afternoon, complicating containment efforts. Weather conditions remain critical, with poor overnight humidity recovery exacerbating the fire’s spread.
Forecast
- Thursday Night: North to northeast winds are expected to intensify. Overnight humidity recovery will remain poor.
- Saturday: Mid-January weather conditions are forecast, potentially offering some relief.
- Sunday to Midweek: Weak to moderate Santa Ana winds will develop, with a likelihood of strong gusts on Tuesday. Critical fire weather conditions are expected to persist through next week.
Impact on Structures and Schools
The Los Angeles County and CAL FIRE Damage Assessment Teams (DINS) report that over 5,000 structures have been destroyed.
The Los Angeles Unified School District has canceled classes for all schools on Friday, January 10. Residents are urged to avoid nonessential travel to ensure firefighters can work efficiently and safely.
Evacuation Centers
The following locations are available for displaced residents:
- Westwood Recreation Center: 1350 South Sepulveda Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90025
- El Camino Real Charter High School: 5440 Valley Circle Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
- Pasadena Convention Center: 300 E Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91101
Road Closures
Residents and commuters are encouraged to follow CHP-West Valley for up-to-date information on road closures. Current closures include:
- Pacific Coast Highway: Closed in multiple sections, including between Entrada Drive and Malibu Canyon Road.
- Topanga Canyon Road: Closed at Mulholland Drive.
- Malibu Canyon: Closed at Piuma Road and Pacific Coast Highway.
- Ocean Avenue, 7th Street, and 26th Street: Shut down for northbound traffic into the Palisades.
- I-10 Westbound: Closed at Lincoln Boulevard.
- Additional closures: Southbound Las Virgenes, Old Topanga Canyon, and various sections of Mulholland Highway.
Animal Evacuation Shelters
Small Animals:
- El Camino High School: 5440 Valley Circle Blvd, Woodland Hills
- Agoura Animal Care Center: 29525 Agoura Rd, Agoura Hills
- Baldwin Park Animal Care Center: 4275 Elton St, Baldwin Park
- Carson Animal Care Center: 216 W Victoria St, Gardena
- Castaic Animal Care Center: 31044 Charlie Canyon, Castaic
- Downey Animal Care Center: 11258 Garfield Ave, Downey
- Lancaster Animal Care Center: 5210 W Ave I, Lancaster
- Palmdale Animal Care Center: 38550 Sierra Hwy, Palmdale
Large Animals:
- Pomona Fairplex: 1101 W McKinley Ave, Pomona
- Industry Hills Expo: 16200 Temple Ave, City of Industry
- LA Equestrian Center: 480 Riverside Dr, Burbank
- Castaic Animal Care Center: 31044 Charlie Canyon, Castaic
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from CAL FIRE and local authorities. Your cooperation and adherence to evacuation orders and road closures are crucial for ensuring safety and facilitating firefighting efforts.
Follow official channels and social media accounts, including CHP-West Valley and CAL FIRE IMT2’s YouTube channel, for the latest developments.