What happened during the first four days of the Eaton, Palisades fires in Southern California

In the early days of the conflagrations in Southern California, the Eaton and Palisades fires manifested substantial destruction. They were first detected on the 21st and 22nd of June, respectively, with the foremost blaze found at the Eaton Canyon Natural Area in Pasadena, and the latter in the cliffs of Pacific Palisades.

On the first day of the event, officials estimated that the Eaton fire had already consumed around 48 acres, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. People residing in the area were notified of the situation and were directed to exert extra vigilance due to potential evacuation orders. However, no evacuations were enforced on that day.

Meanwhile, the Palisades fire, which initiated on the following day, prompted an immediate evacuation order due to its rapid spread, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. The fire, which was anticipated to be more menacing due to the steep and difficult terrain of the area, was assumed to be human-inflicted from the initial investigation. Following the evacuation directive, more than 500 homes were cleared out, with residents taking shelter in evacuation centers.

Throughout the second and third days, both fires continued to blaze, fueled by the hot and dry conditions of Southern California. On the fourth day, a drop in wind speed slowed down the fire spread, allowing firefighters to gain control over the situation. The Eaton Fire was declared around 90% contained, according to my source.

Still, by the end of the first four days, the Eaton fire was reported to have burnt nearly 190 acres and the Palisades fire had engulfed over 1,500 acres, based on the records from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the Los Angeles Fire Department. Firefighters continue to combat these flames and and additional resources had been requested to help suppress the fires.

The investigation for the cause of the Palisades fire is still ongoing. As of this reporting, there haven’t been any reports of casualties or property damage. The community affected are staying informed and prepared, with an emergency alert system in place to notify residents of changes in the situation.