Local Officials Speak at Palisades Fire Press Conference

By LILY TINOCO
Assistant Editor

CAL FIRE held a press conference regarding the Palisades Fire on Sunday, January 12, at 2 p.m., inviting local officials and emergency personnel to provide updates. 

Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone said “elevated” and “critical” fire weather conditions are slated to continue, with a red flag warning that remains in effect through Wednesday, January 15, until 6 p.m. 

“To all residents, please be assured that we will continue to be here for you until the last fire is completely extinguished,” Marrone said. “We stand alongside all of you as we begin to plan for the repopulation of evacuated areas … and the rebuilding of your homes, your communities and your lives.”

In regards to the repopulation of areas that are under evacuation orders, Marrone said those conversations “are not going to begin until the next predicted red flag ends on Wednesday.”

“Rest assured, first thing Thursday, we will start talking about repopulation,” he said.

Councilwoman Traci Park spoke of the fire and its impact on the community.

“I am profoundly saddened by the unimaginable devastation that has swept across Los Angeles,” Park said. “The Palisades Fire alone, the most destructive fire in our city’s history, has engulfed over 23,600 acres since it erupted on Tuesday. Even now, it is only about 11% contained.

“The destruction is staggering, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble and ash.”

Park said curfews remain in place in the Palisades and Brentwood, and are necessary to ensure public safety as high winds are expected to pick up on Monday, January 13.  

“This fire remains active and … the situation is far from over,” Park said. “Pacific Palisades still faces dangerous conditions, including downed power lines, broken gas and water pipes, and now, slide conditions because of water activity.

“Once these fires are contained … we are going to hold community meetings to ensure residents have the answers they need and a voice in the path forward. Together, we are going to rebuild.”