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California wildfires scorch thousands of acres

Writer's picture: Staci JeffersonStaci Jefferson

By Cielo Corona Castro and Victoria Amaya

Staff Writers


California started the year with a devastating fire season in LA County, forcing large-scale evacuations of residents and a surge in hospital visits. According to ABC News, the number of fires increases, adding to the economic losses and becoming one of the costliest natural disasters in American history.

As of January 24, 2025, the Palisades and Eaton fires continue their destructive path, covering more than a combined 37,000 acres. These wildfires have destroyed and damaged upwards of 15,000 structures, including homes, schools, and businesses, displacing thousands of residents. The first major fires were Hurst, Palisades, and Eaton; nevertheless, the Hurst fire was contained fully as of January 16. The Palisades fire is 72% contained and the Eaton fire is 95% contained. Altogether, these disasters have caused the deaths of at least 28 people and the injuries of many.

This week, the Clay, Hughes, Sepulveda, Laguna, and Border two fires have sprung; the incidents have affected the areas of Riverside, Los Angeles, and Ventura. Despite imminent rain, the increasing winds and dry conditions push the threat of new blazes; multiple small fires have sprung in the span of days. With each incident, students are concerned about their community and those in harm's way. As freshman Maya Strawter mentioned, “In California a lot of people are affected by the fire season and should stay safe and be prepared at home. Another student, freshman Lauryn Sanchez, voices, “This is a terrible situation for everyone! Just on January 23 about four new fires sprouted.”

The LA wildfires are expected to cost California at least $135 billion in damages, according to analysts. Fires burning across California will likely cost an estimated $135 nillion to $150 billion in damage and economic losses, according to updated preliminary figures from private forecaster AccuWeather Inc.

Many celebrities have been affected by the wildfires with several losing their homes, including Paris Hilton, Anna Faris, Mel Gibson, Milo Ventimiglia, Anthony Hopkins, Cary Elwes, Eugene Levy, Meryl Streep and several others.

  During these troubled times many organizations are working with LA County to help the affected families. Twenty-eight foundations, including the American Red Cross, YMCA, Salvation Army, Westside Food Bank, California Community Foundation, and many more provide countless resources: shelters, personal needs, and guidance to victims. With many of the foundations located in distant areas, contributing may seem discouraging; however, keep in mind that any type of help can make a difference in someone’s recovery. Lauryn stresses, “Students can set up fundraisers or donation drives for supplies like clothes, food, and toiletries. You can also volunteer at a local shelter or partner with non-profit organizations to spread awareness, collect donations, or provide other forms of support.” Sophomores can earn two hours of volunteer service by donating to the Lancaster YMCA: new food and water, medical supplies, new phone chargers, pet supplies, new pillows, new toiletries, new or gently used towels. Volunteers are required to take pictures of their donation and of themselves in front of the YMCA building, along with having their parents sign the volunteering form.

With the need for supplies and assistance increasing during these turbulent times, it is important to be aware of current frauds. Notably, several scam artists have been posing as charities or nonprofit organizations, taking advantage of those hoping to support fire victims; other frauds to be wary of are the business realtor scheme and price gouging. Therefore, it is recommended that you donate to charities you can trust, research the organizations, be cautious when using crowdfunding sites (such as GoFundMe), and avoid donating to anyone who insists solely on gift cards, cash, wire money, or cryptocurrency payments.

As thousands of acres have been lost to the ruthless 2025 fire season, many residents of California have been deprived of countless resources. Community members are encouraged to provide assistance in any way possible: donations, organizing fundraisers, or even guidance. Your efforts can provide comfort to people of all ages, alleviating the worries of families and the elderly. Let us be strong and honor the dedication of those working to improve the situation.


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