California Wildfire Updates: Hollywood Hills Erupt in Flames as Evacuations Intensify
Thousands flee as new fires break out in LA, forcing evacuations, disrupting the Oscars, and claiming lives across the region
- Sunset Fire ignites in Hollywood Hills
- Oscar nominations delayed by two days as the fires disrupt the entertainment industry
- Palisades and Eaton Fires rage on
The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, which have already claimed at least five lives, have now spread to the iconic Hollywood Hills, igniting near Runyon Canyon.
The new blaze, which broke out during a news briefing by Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley, prompted immediate action. “We are throwing all of our available resources at it as we speak,” she stated.
The Los Angeles Fire Department swiftly issued an evacuation order for the “Sunset Fire,” which was visible from both Hollywood and West Hollywood, with helicopter crews working tirelessly to control the flames.
Evacuations were ordered for an area that spans Hollywood Boulevard to the south, Mulholland Drive to the north, the 101 Freeway to the east, and Laurel Canyon Boulevard to the west, affecting many from the entertainment industry.
The fire also disrupted next week’s Oscar nominations announcement, which was delayed by two days. While relatively small compared to other fires, the Sunset Fire still burned dangerously close to Hollywood Boulevard and the famous Walk of Fame. Social media footage showed the fire alarmingly close to residential areas, with many West Hollywood residents rushing to evacuate. The Hollywood Bowl is within the evacuation zone as well.
Meanwhile, the Palisades Fire on the west side of Los Angeles has consumed over 6,400 hectares and destroyed hundreds of structures, while the Eaton Fire in the east claimed another 4,289 hectares and at least five more lives. As firefighters continue their battle, the crisis deepens, leaving widespread devastation across the region.
