As Southern California braces for another round of intense Santa Ana winds, which have prompted high wind warnings, community members affected by the Eaton Fire gathered in Pasadena to discuss recovery and preparedness.
The Eaton Fire, which ravaged over 14,000 acres of the San Gabriel Mountains and devastated much of Altadena, is currently 81% contained. The fire destroyed nearly 10,000 structures and claimed at least 17 lives, though the death toll is expected to rise as the full extent of the damage becomes clearer.
In response to the ongoing danger, the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for much of inland Southern California, including parts of Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. The warning is in effect from 10 a.m. Monday to 10 p.m. Tuesday, due to expected high winds and low humidity — conditions similar to those that fueled the spread of both the Eaton and Palisades fires.
Dennis Burns, a fire behavior analyst, highlighted the significance of the upcoming wind event during Sunday’s meeting, noting that the winds could reach speeds of 50-70 miles per hour in the coastlines and valleys, with gusts potentially reaching 100 miles per hour in the mountains and foothills. “It’s really about where the low-pressure and high-pressure systems align,” Burns said, predicting which areas will experience the worst impacts.
Also Read – Pasadena Small Businesses Struggling After Devastating Eaton Fire
At the meeting, L.A. County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone reflected on the scale of the Eaton Fire, describing it as the worst incident his team has ever encountered. “I’m thankful we didn’t lose more lives, but 17 is still far too many,” Marrone said, offering his condolences to those affected by the tragedy.
One of those directly impacted was Karen Dekker, a San Gabriel Unified schoolteacher who lost her home in the fire. After 30 years as an Altadena resident, Dekker’s house on Homewood Drive was reduced to ashes. Still, she remains hopeful about rebuilding. “It’s tough to lose your home, but I’m determined to rebuild, and I know many of my neighbors feel the same way,” she said.
To aid in her recovery, Dekker’s colleagues at SGUSD have organized a GoFundMe campaign to provide financial support to her family.
For residents forced to evacuate, the L.A. Sheriff’s Department has shared repopulation and safety guidelines to assist in the recovery process. More details are available on the department’s website.
For further guidance on wildfire preparedness, the sheriff’s department also offers resources on how to safeguard homes and families in the event of future fires .
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