As I’m based in Los Angeles, I figured I’d give an update on what things are like right now. If you haven’t been paying attention to the news, we were hit with a once-in-a-decade wind storm that started yesterday which, coupled with not having meaningful rainfall since May 2024, led to perfect fire conditions.
I’m based in Hollywood Hills West and so my perspective is based solely on where I live and that of my friends. That said, I figured it’d be worthwhile to share how things are going on my end for those curious about the conditions here.
Although I live in an area that is at an extreme fire risk, right now I’m fine. The winds having been gusting for nearly a full day and it sounds like a hurricane outside (with my wonderful dog, Marley, mostly staying calm, but occasionally barking at the wind).
There are four fires raging around Los Angeles right now, but the two main ones are based in Pasadena and Pacific Palisades. If you don’t know Los Angeles geography, where I’m based is basically near the center of Los Angeles, with Pasadena about 12 miles to my east and Pacific Palisades about 12 miles to my west.
So, I’m right in the middle of the mayhem and because I’m perched on a hill with near 360-degree views of the city, I can see both fires from my roof. What’s wild to me is that if I look east, south, or west, it looks like the apocalypse, but if I look north, there are blue skies.
Sadly, I’m used to wildfires. Before living in Los Angeles, I lived in San Francisco for nine years and we had our share of crazy fire experiences, so it’s possible that I’m more calm about this than a lot of other residents. That said, I’ve had friends who needed to evacuate (and who may have lost their homes), friends who are without power, and I’m on my toes knowing that I could very easily need to evacuate quickly myself.
So far, the air quality isn’t great but it’s not awful (likely thanks to the winds).
My main piece of advice is that if you have plans to visit Los Angeles this week or weekend, I’d recommend postponing. Right now, the fires are 0% contained and aside from that, we’re being asked to stay off the roads to give the way to first responders. And if you’re in Los Angeles, please stay safe out there!
