A large wildfire, dubbed the Palisades Fire, has rapidly spread through the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles, prompting widespread evacuations. Initially reported at approximately two acres near the 1100 block of North Piedra Morada Drive around 10:30 a.m., the blaze exploded in size throughout the day. By 8:15 p.m. ET, the fire had consumed an estimated 1,200 acres, according to NBC Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reported that homes are threatened, and some structures may have already been damaged. Significant traffic congestion was reported on the nearby Pacific Coast Highway as residents evacuated.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued an urgent plea at 2:50 p.m. ET, urging residents to heed all evacuation warnings and follow instructions from public safety officials. She emphasized the active and aggressive firefighting efforts underway, with support from regional partners. The fire has also impacted local schools, forcing the relocation of students from three campuses in the affected area, according to the Associated Press.
Adding to the emergency, a separate fire ignited in the Hollywood Hills on West Hollywood Boulevard, though firefighters successfully contained its spread. These incidents coincide with red flag warnings issued for much of Southern California, from Santa Barbara to the Mexican border. Strong Santa Ana winds have created exceptionally high fire risk conditions across the region. The situation remains dynamic, and this story is developing.