Why is Los Angeles on fire? | The Take

The Take: Los Angeles Wildfires – A Community in Crisis

Apocalyptic Scenes in Los Angeles

Today, Los Angeles is burning. It looks like an apocalyptic scene playing out all around us. As I stepped out onto the balcony, my neighbor pointed to a fire just over the hill. Turning, I saw flames creeping up the steep terrain, consuming heavy fuel from time to time.

These wildfires are being called the most destructive fires in LA’s history. Local officials and residents are responding in varied ways. Here’s a deeper look into this crisis.


A Devastating Toll: Altadena and the Eaton Fire

Mona Holmes, a reporter from East Los Angeles, grew up in Altadena, a community northeast of downtown LA. The Eaton Fire has claimed at least five lives and destroyed over 1,000 homes. Mona described the scene as surreal:

“I watched everything unfold and wondered which part of Altadena would be impacted. Driving to my childhood home, I saw downed power lines and fires still ongoing. When I turned onto my childhood street, I almost didn’t recognize it — everything was leveled. It looked as if a bomb had gone off. My childhood home is gone.”

Altadena was one of the last areas in Southern California where Black families still owned homes. Mona reflected on the loss and wondered what will happen to these families now.


Challenges of Evacuation and Preparedness

Mona, like many others, has been without power for three days. She has candles, a week’s worth of water, and canned food, but hopes life can return to normal soon. However, “normal” seems far off as fires continue to spread across Los Angeles.

In the Hollywood Hills, journalist Manuel Rapo shared his experience of evacuating:

“After receiving the evacuation order, we packed as much as we could and left. Driving across Hollywood Boulevard, we wondered if there would be anything left when we returned.”

Manuel’s home is near the Hollywood Reservoir, a beautiful Alpine lake with a view of the Hollywood sign. The thought of this iconic symbol engulfed in flames is almost unimaginable.


Impact on Wealthy and Working-Class Communities

While Malibu and Pacific Palisades, known for their expensive homes and celebrity residents, have drawn much attention, this crisis is not confined to the wealthy. Communities like Altadena have suffered devastating losses, showing that wildfires affect everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status.

Manuel noted:

“These fires are burning all over the city, affecting every resident of Los Angeles. People are losing their homes. Crises tend to bring people together, but it’s heartbreaking to see this kind of devastation.”


A Historic Natural Disaster

The Palisades Fire and others across the city have created surreal scenes: smoky air, ash falling from the sky, and neighborhoods debating whether to stay or evacuate. The Los Angeles City Fire Chief has called this event one of the most destructive natural disasters in the city’s history.

Local residents are using apps like Watch Duty to stay updated. However, fires fueled by the Santa Ana Winds are spreading rapidly, leaving even the most prepared feeling powerless. Firefighters are working double shifts, with helicopters brought in from other counties to battle the flames. Despite these efforts, the fires are overwhelming, akin to a game of “whack-a-mole.”


Government Response and Public Criticism

Criticism of government responses has been widespread. LA Mayor Karen Bass, criticized for being absent when the fires began, faced backlash after a Sky News reporter confronted her at LAX. While she later assured residents that “we are fighting for you,” the lack of immediate action left many feeling abandoned.

Debates over fire department budget cuts, prison labor used to fight fires, and resource allocation have added to the tension. However, many residents recognize the unprecedented nature of this disaster and the role of climate change in exacerbating conditions.


A Crisis of Climate and Community

Climate change is a major factor behind these wildfires. Rising temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds have created perfect conditions for fires to ignite and spread. The Urban-Wildland Interface, where development meets natural areas, has further increased vulnerability.

In addition to climate concerns, inadequate forest management and outdated infrastructure have compounded the crisis. Addressing these systemic issues is critical to preventing future disasters.


Stories of Resilience and Community Support

Amid the devastation, acts of kindness and resilience shine through. Neighbors are helping each other evacuate and protect homes. People in Malibu stayed behind to use garden hoses to defend their properties and those of their neighbors. These stories underscore the strength of community in times of crisis.


What Comes Next?

For residents like Manuel, the focus is on recovery and preparation:

“We’re hoping for the best as we return home to check if everything is still there. This isn’t over. It’s scary to think about what could happen in the future, but we’re determined to rebuild.”

As Los Angeles battles these historic fires, the city’s resilience and unity will be crucial in overcoming this crisis and rebuilding stronger.


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