Pacific Palisades, CA — A massive brush fire, driven by fierce Santa Ana winds, swept through Pacific Palisades on Tuesday, damaging structures and prompting mandatory evacuations for over 30,000 residents. The fire, which began around 10:30 a.m. near Piedra Morada and Monte Hermoso drives, consumed 2,921 acres by evening with no containment.
Evacuations extended to parts of Malibu and Santa Monica, threatening 13,200 structures. Evacuation centers were set up at Westwood Recreation Center and Pierce College. Firefighters, aided by air tankers and helicopters, battled the flames, but strong winds grounded most aircraft by nightfall.
Road closures, including PCH and Sunset Boulevard, hindered evacuations. Flames jumped Tuna Canyon Road, intensifying threats to Malibu. Several structures, including parts of Palisades Charter High School, burned.
The Getty Villa was secured, and emergency declarations were made. Schools announced closures, with remote learning planned if conditions persist. A smoke advisory remains in effect, urging residents to stay indoors due to unhealthy air quality.