Eaton Fire Intensifies: Unprecedented for the Region
According to CalFire: The Eaton Fire, which began on January 7, 2025, near Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive in the Altadena/Pasadena area, continues to pose significant threats to communities and critical infrastructure. As of this afternoon, the fire has consumed 10,600 acres, with 0% containment. Unified efforts by the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Pasadena Fire Department, and the United States Forest Service are underway to combat the wind-driven wildfire.
Current Conditions
Firefighters are working tirelessly under extreme conditions, including Red Flag winds, dry vegetation, and low humidity. These factors have caused the fire to spread rapidly, threatening multiple structures and leading to the destruction and damage of properties. Tragically, the fire has already claimed the lives of two civilians.
Residents in affected areas should remain alert and adhere to evacuation orders and warnings issued by Cal FIRE and local authorities.
South Pasadena: Air Quality at Hazardous Levels
In South Pasadena, the effects of the Eaton Fire are being felt in the form of hazardous and very unhealthy air quality, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD). Residents should take immediate precautions to protect their health from wildfire smoke and ash:
- Close all windows and doors to prevent smoke from entering your home.
- Turn off external vents on HVAC systems to avoid drawing in smoky air.
- Use air purifiers indoors to maintain air quality.
- Limit outdoor physical activity to reduce exposure to smoky air.
- Avoid skin contact with ash. Use gloves, long-sleeved clothing, and masks for cleanup, and wash ash off skin and surfaces promptly.
Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable. Keep children and pets away from ash and soot, and wash toys or objects that may have come into contact with ash before use.
School Closures and Emergency Shelters
Due to the fire and air quality concerns, South Pasadena Unified School District and several other nearby districts have announced closures through at least Friday, January 10, 2025.
Evacuation shelters have been set up for affected residents, with locations including:
- Pasadena Convention Center, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena
- Arcadia Community Center, 375 Campus Drive, Arcadia
- Pomona Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona
Water Advisory for Pasadena Residents
Residents in Pasadena’s evacuation zones are under a Do Not Drink or Cook water advisory due to potential contamination from debris and turbidity in the water system. South Pasadena’s water remains safe and unaffected. For impacted Pasadena residents, bottled water should be used for all purposes until further notice.
Federal Assistance and Response
California has secured federal emergency support for the response to the Eaton Fire. Resources deployed to the fire include 79 engines, nine hand crews, two water tenders, and aerial support, with a total of 702 personnel engaged in suppression efforts.
Stay Informed and Prepared
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the situation by visiting official sources such as the South Coast AQMD for air quality updates and Cal FIRE’s incident page for fire-related developments.
For emergency information, contact the LA County Fire Department Public Information Line at 626-662-0120.
Remain diligent and on-the-lookout for fires or flare-ups: Call 911
