On January 7, 2025, an evacuation order was issued for parts of Santa Monica due to the ongoing Palisades Fire, which has grown significantly and is currently at 0% containment. The affected area includes Santa Monica north of San Vicente Boulevard, bordered by Ocean Avenue and 26th Street. Additionally, an evacuation warning is in place for the region between Montana Avenue and San Vicente Boulevard.
Residents in the evacuation warning zone are advised to be prepared for potential evacuation and should keep an eye on local social media channels for ongoing updates. Santa Monica’s emergency services are taking active measures, including patrolling for downed trees and power lines. Residents can report outages and issues to the appropriate emergency numbers.
As of this morning, the Palisades Fire has affected over 3,000 acres, with nearly 400 firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department deployed to manage the situation. Cal Fire has taken over the management of the incident, reinforcing the need for residents to stay off the roads to allow emergency personnel to respond effectively.
City services, including schools and recreational facilities, are suspended in affected areas, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Officials are urging residents to conserve water resources to support firefighting efforts.
It’s essential for community members to check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those who may require assistance, and ensure they are informed about the situation.
The high winds are expected to persist, complicating firefighting efforts, but the city remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property. Santa Monica’s clean water supply remains unaffected, providing some positive news amid the challenging circumstances.
This situation underscores the importance of community support and readiness in times of crisis. As updates continue to emerge, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and prioritize safety.