New Evacuations Ordered as L.A.'s Largest Wildfire Expands.
*LOS ANGELES, January 11, 2025* - Emergency officials ordered new mandatory evacuations today as the massive Palisades fire continued its aggressive eastward expansion, now threatening neighborhoods near the prestigious Getty Center art museum.
The fast-moving blaze, already designated as Los Angeles' largest wildfire this season, has forced thousands of residents to flee their homes as firefighters battle to contain the growing inferno under challenging conditions.
"We're implementing immediate evacuation orders for all residents within a three-mile radius of the fire's eastern front," said Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Mark Thompson. "This is not a drill - if you're in the evacuation zone, you need to leave now."
The Getty Center, home to billions of dollars worth of art and antiquities, has activated its emergency protocols. Museum officials emphasized that the facility was designed with wildfires in mind, featuring fire-resistant architecture and sophisticated suppression systems.
In Sacramento, Governor Gavin Newsom raised pointed questions about the initial firefighting response. "We need clear answers about whether our first responders had adequate resources, particularly water supplies, during those critical first hours," Newsom said during an emergency briefing. "Every minute counts when we're fighting fires of this magnitude."
Current evacuation zones include:
- Pacific Palisades (north of Sunset Boulevard)
- Brentwood Heights
- Eastern portions of Topanga Canyon
- Areas surrounding Mulholland Drive near the Getty Center
Fire officials report the blaze has already consumed over 8,000 acres, with containment at just 15%. High winds and unusually dry conditions continue to complicate firefighting efforts.
The Red Cross has established emergency shelters at:
- Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
- Palisades High School
- West Los Angeles Community College
Residents can text LAFIRE to 888777 for real-time evacuation updates.
*This is a developing story. Please check local emergency services for the latest evacuation orders and updates.*
