A fast-moving brush fire erupted Tuesday afternoon in Pacific Palisades, California, scorching 200 acres and prompting mandatory evacuations. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reports that structures in the area are under immediate threat, including several in the Pacific Palisades Highlands.
The fire began around 1:30 p.m. near Piedra Morada and Monte Hermoso drives and rapidly spread, fueled by dry conditions and gusting winds. By 3 p.m., the blaze had consumed nearly 200 acres, destroying several buildings. Mandatory evacuation orders cover areas from Merrimac Road west to Topanga Canyon Boulevard and south to Pacific Coast Highway.
The Getty Villa, located off Pacific Coast Highway, is closed and remains on high alert. While the museum is normally closed to the public on Tuesdays, spokesperson Alexandria Sivak confirmed there were no visitors on-site. Emergency staff are monitoring the situation in coordination with the LAFD.
An evacuation center has been established at the Westwood Recreation Center, located at 1350 South Sepulveda Boulevard in Los Angeles, to assist displaced residents.
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning, with forecasts of a “life-threatening and dangerous windstorm” persisting through late Wednesday. The conditions, combined with dry vegetation, are expected to exacerbate fire risks until Thursday evening.
Fire crews continue to battle the flames as high winds pose challenges for containment. Residents in the affected areas are urged to follow evacuation orders and stay updated on emergency alerts.
Southern California was just hit earlier this fall with the Franklin Fire which threatened residents in the Malibu community.
For more updates, visit Cal Fire’s website.
