Thousands were forced to flee as the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles spread rapidly, driven by fierce winds. Many evacuated in pajamas, leaving cars behind as over 30,000 people escaped the flames, which burned 3,000 acres by evening.
Elderly residents in care facilities were evacuated in wheelchairs, some sheltering in parking lots. Traffic jams and grounded firefighting planes added to the chaos as authorities worked tirelessly to protect lives.
Governor Newsom warned of worsening conditions, with dry vegetation and strong winds creating extreme fire risks. Firefighters faced dangerous flames with limited resources, bracing for more outbreaks.
Despite the devastation, communities showed resilience. Volunteers and first responders worked together, but officials cautioned the worst may still be ahead as the fire continued to spread.