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The skies above Los Angeles resemble a post-apocalyptic scene as wildfires continue to wreak havoc across the county. Malibu, the Hollywood Hills, and surrounding neighborhoods have been hit especially hard, forcing thousands to evacuate and leaving destruction in their wake.
Among the most tragic losses are two cultural landmarks: the Will Rogers State Historic Park in Santa Monica and Topanga State Park.
A friend in LA just took this video pic.twitter.com/WJBWCHmCUs
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 8, 2025
Historic Sites Reduced to Rubble
The historic home of 1930s movie cowboy legend Will Rogers, once perched above the Pacific Ocean, now lies in ruins. Only fireplaces remain of the ranch where Rogers, one of Hollywood's highest-paid actors, lived and entertained guests. California State Parks managed to evacuate horses and some priceless artifacts, including artwork, before the flames engulfed the site.
Topanga State Park, another beloved location, saw the destruction of its iconic Topanga Ranch Motel and other concession buildings. Homes of park employees were also lost. Over 30 structures between the two parks have been consumed by the fire.
NOW: Palisades Branch Library is a total loss. PalisadesFire @foxla pic.twitter.com/QWwogGbikt
— Gigi Graciette (@GigiGraciette) January 8, 2025
“California State Parks mourns the loss of these treasured natural and cultural resources,” said Armando Quintero, State Parks Director. “Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the devastating fires in the Los Angeles area.”
Will Rogers State Park Ranch Home burned to rubble (Before and After photos)
Firefighters Battle Multiple Blazes
As of Wednesday afternoon, six wildfires were raging across Los Angeles County. The Pacific Palisades, Sylmar, and Pasadena areas are among the hardest hit. Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain the infernos, which have already destroyed over 1,000 structures.
Scenes from Malibu and the Hollywood Hills are particularly grim. What were once lush landscapes and luxurious homes are now charred wastelands. Residents describe the harrowing experience of fleeing their homes, often with little more than the clothes on their backs.
What makes this crisis even more alarming is the incredible proximity of the flames to urban areas. The wildfires have crept dangerously close to residential neighborhoods and city landmarks, underscoring the unpredictable and devastating nature of the blaze.
Trump: Gov. Gavin ‘Newscum’ Prioritized Extinct Fish Over Water
Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump has accused California Governor Gavin Newsom of prioritizing an extinct fish species, the delta smelt, over addressing the state’s water needs, which he claims contributed to the “apocalyptic” wildfires ravaging Los Angeles, including the Pacific Palisades.
Trump criticized Newsom for blocking a water diversion plan that would have redirected water from Northern California to the drought-stricken south, including areas currently engulfed by flames. According to Trump, Newsom’s decision was motivated by environmental concerns to protect the smelt, which has been effectively extinct but was once crucial to the ecosystem.
This clash over water policy isn’t new. During Trump’s first term, he signed a federal order to redirect water south, but Newsom’s administration successfully sued to limit the amount pumped from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The two have since clashed over state and federal water regulations.
Newsom’s office dismissed Trump’s claims, stating no such water restoration declaration exists and that the governor remains focused on providing resources for firefighting and protecting residents.
As of now, wildfires across Los Angeles have forced the evacuation of over 70,000 residents, with two fatalities reported. The largest fire, the Palisades Fire, remains uncontained, intensifying an already dire situation for those affected.
To the heroes, firefighters, and first responders battling these fires in Los Angeles: Your sacrifice and determination inspire the entire state.
— Governor Newsom (@CAgovernor) January 8, 2025
California is deeply grateful for your dedication and service. pic.twitter.com/zfAzwfC1JY
A Community Reeling
The wildfires have prompted widespread evacuations, with shelters set up across the county to accommodate displaced residents. Those who remain are urged to stay alert, as shifting winds could exacerbate the situation.
The destruction has been deeply personal for many Angelenos. "I told my kids, ‘Don’t look back,’” said one evacuee. “We left everything behind and ran for our lives.”
Call for Action
California State Parks staff and local authorities are now focused on salvaging what they can from affected areas. They are also working to protect other nearby parks at risk.
“Since [Tuesday] afternoon, we’ve directed all available resources to the emergency response effort,” said Quintero. “Our top priority remains the safety of the public, our employees, and the responders bravely battling the fires.”
For now, Los Angeles stands united, with first responders, residents, and local agencies working tirelessly to protect lives, homes, and the cultural heritage that makes the city unique. Images of devastation continue to serve as a stark reminder of nature’s power and the resilience of those forced to endure its fury.
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Sources: Fox News, ABC News
