Officials confirmed on Friday that the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, which collectively scorched nearly 40,000 acres in the Los Angeles region, have been completely contained.
The Palisades Fire affected 23,448 acres on the western side of Los Angeles, while the Eaton Fire consumed 14,201 acres after igniting on January 7, as reported by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
This duo of significant fires, alongside numerous smaller ones, led to the most severe natural catastrophe in the history of Los Angeles County, resulting in 28 fatalities and causing damage to over 16,000 structures, according to Cal Fire.
A Super Scooper plane drops water on the Palisades fire on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, in Pacific Palisades, California. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
Stewart said the rain was “more of a hindrance” because it led to mudslides and blocked roads first responders needed to access.
“Had this rain come two weeks ago, it might have been more helpful,” Stewart said.
Reuters contributed to this report.
