Los Angeles, USA — A fire in one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Los Angeles forced the evacuation of 30,000 people Tuesday as flames spread out of control, driven by strong winds that are hitting the region.
The rapid advance of the flames threatens some 10,000 homes and some 13,000 structures while some 30,000 have had to be evacuated from their homes, Kristin Crowley, head of the Los Angeles Fire Department, said at a press conference.
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The fire, which started at about 10:30am local time (18:30 GMT) in the Pacific Palisade neighborhood in the north of the metropolis, grew to 1,200 acres (485 hectares) in a matter of hours, the fire department reported in its latest bulletin.
Authorities have declared a state of emergency in the Pacific Palisades area due to the strong gusts of wind expected in the next 24 hours.
Smoke Fills the Sky Over Southern California
“Wind gusts of up to 60mph (more than 90 kmph) are expected to continue through Thursday, which could help fuel fire activity,” it added.
Local media show dramatic images of smoke blanketing the sky, visible from Santa Monica and surrounding areas, as rescue teams race to secure the neighborhood.
Celebrity Residents in Harm’s Way
Pacific Palisades, home to several Hollywood celebrities, has become the latest hotspot in California’s ongoing battle with wildfires.
Weather Service Issues Critical Fire Warnings
The National Weather Service cautioned Monday that a severe windstorm would hit Southern California, with Los Angeles and Ventura counties being most affected.
“Strong winds and low humidity will create critical and extremely critical fire weather conditions through Thursday,” the agency warned on its website.
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