Fire Update in Southern California: Rain Aids LA, Border 2 Fire Struggles
LOS ANGELES − Over the past weekend, much of Southern California, which has been battling fires, received a much-needed dose of rain, helping to bring the fires near Los Angeles closer to full containment.
As of Sunday morning, the Eaton, Palisades, Hughes, and Laguna fires have all reached over 85% containment, as reported by Cal Fire.
The Eaton and Palisades fires started nearly a month ago during an unprecedented wind event that has resulted in at least 28 fatalities, burnt around 37,500 acres, and destroyed thousands of homes and businesses. The Hughes Fire, located near Santa Clarita, ignited on Wednesday and has charred nearly 10,500 acres; however, no structural damage has been reported in connection with this fire yet.
The Border 2 Fire, located near San Diego, is the only ongoing fire that is less than 50% controlled. It erupted in the Otay Mountain Wilderness Area, roughly 30 miles southeast of the city and just north of the U.S.-Mexico border. Rain is anticipated to continue in the area throughout the afternoon.
While the rainfall provides useful assistance in battling the fires, it also raises concerns about mudslides, as the National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the burn areas extending into Monday.
Palisades Fire
- Start date: January 7, 2025
- Size in acres: 23,448
- Containment: 87%
Eaton Fire
- Start date: January 7, 2025
- Size in acres: 14,021
- Containment: 95%
Hughes Fire
- Start date: January 22, 2025
- Size in acres: 10,425
- Containment: 92%
Border 2 Fire
- Start date: January 23, 2025
- Size in acres: 6,625
- Containment: 10%
Laguna Fire
- Start date: January 23, 2025
- Size in acres: 83
- Containment: 98%