A rapidly spreading wildfire, known as the Eaton Fire, led to the evacuation of a senior living community near Altadena and Pasadena late Tuesday night. The fire, fueled by strong winds, quickly engulfed over 400 acres in the Angeles National Forest, prompting a swift response from emergency crews.
Senior Center Evacuation
Approximately 95 residents from The Terraces at Park Marino, an assisted living facility, were evacuated as the fire approached. The residents, many in wheelchairs and gurneys, were temporarily gathered in a nearby 7-Eleven parking lot. Emergency responders utilized every available vehicle to assist in the evacuation, including a SWAT armored vehicle and a bus, to ensure the residents’ safety.
Fire’s Rapid Spread
The fire began around 6 p.m. in Eaton Canyon, near Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive. Within two hours, it had spread aggressively uphill, consuming dry brush in its path. The Angeles National Forest reported the fire’s alarming growth on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting its erratic behavior due to intense wind conditions.
Extreme Weather Worsens Fire Conditions
The Pasadena Fire Department cited significant winds as a major factor in the fire’s rapid spread. These winds, described by meteorologists as part of one of the worst windstorms in a decade, made firefighting efforts more challenging.
The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for Los Angeles and Ventura counties, effective from Tuesday morning through Thursday evening. A high wind advisory also remains in effect until Wednesday evening. These conditions have elevated fire danger across the region, threatening multiple structures and endangering lives.
Emergency Response Efforts
Authorities are actively working to establish a mass care and evacuation center for displaced residents. City spokesperson Lisa Derderian confirmed that multiple structures are under threat as crews battle to contain the flames.
Community Safety Measures
Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay alert, follow evacuation orders, and monitor updates from local authorities. The combination of extreme weather and fire activity underscores the importance of preparedness in fire-prone regions.
The Eaton Fire is the second major wildfire to strike Los Angeles County during this windstorm, emphasizing the severe impact of current weather conditions on wildfire behavior.
