The upscale neighborhood of Pacific Palisades, known for its celebrity sightings, has transformed into a battleground as firefighters combat a devastating 3,000-acre wildfire.
Tens of thousands of residents across Los Angeles have been evacuated as fierce winds fuel multiple blazes, prompting a state of emergency that has left evacuation routes congested.
Among those forced to flee are notable figures from the entertainment industry, including actors Mark Hamill and Eugene Levy.
Actor James Woods expressed his concern over social media, unsure about the fate of his home amidst the chaos, stating, “It feels like losing a loved one.”
Pacific Palisades is home to an average property value of $4.5 million, and its appeal lies in its proximity to beautiful beaches and a community vibe, complete with local markets and trendy cafés.
However, the recent fire—rapidly expanding from 10 acres to nearly 3,000—has upended the peaceful atmosphere of the area. Hamill referred to this fire as the “most horrific fire since ’93,” a reference to a catastrophic wildfire that charred 18,000 acres and destroyed hundreds of homes.
Witnesses, including Levy, reported dark smoke clouds looming over the Temescal Canyon, causing significant alarm despite the absence of visible flames.
Tragic losses have been reported, including the home of reality stars Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag, prompting emotional responses from family members.
In an effort to assist, actor Steve Guttenberg has taken to helping firefighters by moving vehicles obstructing the roads, emphasizing the urgent need for cooperation among residents.
Significant structures are also at risk, including the Palisades Charter High School, which has sustained damage. This school holds a place in Hollywood history, having served as a filming location for numerous films.
The Getty Villa, known for its impressive art collection, has closed its doors but confirmed that its exhibits and staff remain unharmed.
As the community grapples with these events, a series of scheduled film premieres and awards events have been canceled, underscoring the widespread impact of this disaster.
