The city of Santa Monica is actively responding to the ongoing Palisades Fire, collaborating closely with the Los Angeles Fire Department. The Santa Monica Fire Department has provided mutual aid as part of the emergency response efforts. Authorities are closely monitoring wind and fire conditions overnight and planning to provide a significant update on the situation tomorrow morning.
An evacuation order has been issued due to an immediate threat to life, targeting residents in a specific area: between the northern border of Santa Monica and San Vicente Boulevard, extending from Ocean Avenue to 26th Street. Access to this area is prohibited, and residents are urged to evacuate immediately.
Emergency services, including Santa Monica Police, are deployed to assist with evacuations, particularly in the north of Montana evacuation zone. An increased police presence is noted throughout the area to ensure public safety. Residents are advised to adhere to police instructions promptly for their protection.
City services such as street sweeping, trash collection, and library access have been suspended in the affected zones. Free transportation via Big Blue Bus to the Palisades Fire evacuation center at Westwood Recreation Center will begin at 8 p.m., with hourly departures from the 7th Street and San Vicente Boulevard pick-up location.
Additionally, an evacuation warning has been issued for the region between Montana Avenue and San Vicente Boulevard, advising those who may need extra time to evacuate to do so now. The warning applies to the yellow areas on the city’s evacuation map.
Access points such as the westbound I-10 at Lincoln Boulevard and several streets north of Ocean Avenue are closed to facilitate the evacuation process. The Downtown Farmers Market scheduled for January 8 has also been canceled to ensure safety.
Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel in the northern parts of Santa Monica to aid first responders and to conserve water supply by turning off scheduled sprinklers to maintain pressure for emergency services. High winds are anticipated to persist, prompting continued caution.
This situation highlights the strong community response in times of crisis, with authorities taking comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of residents. As the situation develops, the dedication of emergency responders serves as a reminder of the resilience and support within the community.
Summary: Santa Monica is currently under evacuation orders due to the ongoing Palisades Fire. The city is working closely with fire departments and police to ensure public safety, and residents are urged to evacuate immediately in designated areas. City services are suspended, and free transportation to evacuation centers is being provided. Continued monitoring of fire conditions and emergency measures is in place as authorities assess the situation.