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Recent Wildfires in Los Angeles
Wildfires have long been a destructive force in California, but recent blazes in Los Angeles have reignited concerns over the state’s wildfires. The Palisades and Eaton fires, which erupted earlier this week, have claimed at least 10 lives, destroyed thousands of structures, and burned tens of thousands of acres. Early estimates suggest damages could reach $60-$130 billion, far surpassing previous records.
These fast-moving fires have devastated large swaths of California’s prized coastline and leveled entire neighborhoods. As firefighters work to contain the flames, the Palisades and Eaton fires have already been added to the list of the most destructive wildfires in Los Angeles County history.
Worst Wildfires in California History
While these fires are still burning, they are far from being the most devastating wildfires California has faced. Here are five of the worst wildfires in the state’s history:
1. August Complex Fire (2020)
The largest wildfire in California history, the August Complex Fire burned an incredible 1,032,648 acres across six counties. Sparked by lightning in the Mendocino National Forest, it took firefighters 87 days to contain. While no civilians were killed, one firefighter lost their life battling the flames.
2. Camp Fire (2018)
The deadliest wildfire in California’s history, the Camp Fire claimed 85 lives and destroyed the town of Paradise. Over 150,000 acres burned, with nearly 19,000 structures lost. A faulty PG&E power line sparked the fire, which caused an estimated $16 billion in damages.
3. Dixie Fire (2021)
Burning for 104 days, the Dixie Fire scorched 963,309 acres across five counties and wiped out entire towns, including Greenville. Caused by a PG&E power line, the fire left devastation in its wake and led to a $45 million settlement for affected communities.
4. Mendocino Complex Fire (2018)
Comprising the Ranch and River fires, the Mendocino Complex Fire burned 459,123 acres across four counties in Northern California. It lasted an astounding 161 days, destroying hundreds of structures and resulting in one firefighter death.
5. Woolsey Fire (2018)
The Woolsey Fire burned 96,949 acres across Ventura and Los Angeles counties, destroying 1,643 structures and killing three people. It caused $52 million in suppression costs and billions in insured losses.
As the Palisades and Eaton fires continue to burn, they join a long history of devastating wildfires in California. These events underscore the need for fire prevention, community preparedness, and more resilient infrastructure in a fire-prone state.
