Thousands Evacuate as Wildfires Ravage Southern California

On January 7, 2025, wildfires rapidly spread across Southern California, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate as flames engulfed the Pacific Palisades area. The situation escalated quickly, leaving communities on edge as firefighters raced to control the blaze.

Fox News correspondent Matt Finn reported live from the scene, describing the events as “potentially catastrophic.”

“We could see flames right over this hill, threatening a mobile home park along the Pacific Coast Highway. Earlier, we saw red-hot flames that are now hidden by thick black smoke,” Finn explained.

He continued, “What’s especially concerning is the fire’s steady movement across the soil. It is creeping closer to the Pacific Coast Highway and the ocean. Meanwhile, embers are igniting palm trees and nearby structures. This cycle has repeated throughout the day.”

Moreover, the fire’s proximity to the coastline has created a grave threat to Malibu, Santa Monica, and surrounding areas. Finn highlighted the urgency of the situation.

“Currently, 30,000 people are under mandatory evacuation orders. Drivers abandoned at least 30 cars on Sunset Boulevard to escape the flames. Some eyewitnesses believe even more vehicles may have been left behind,” he added.

Earlier in the day, a red flag warning alerted residents to the high risk of wildfires. Finn explained how the weather has made the situation worse.

“This is one of the strongest wind events in a decade,” he said. “The winds are relentless, whipping smoke and embers into your face. It feels like a tropical storm or a low-grade hurricane. Meanwhile, homes continue to burst into flames as thick black smoke drifts across the Pacific Coast Highway into the ocean.”

These dangerous conditions—high winds, dry air, and flying embers—have created a perfect storm for the wildfire’s rapid spread. Finn’s observations underscored the scale of the disaster.

Laura expressed deep concern for Southern California’s residents, recalling the devastation caused by previous wildfires in the area.

“The people of California have endured so much in recent years with these fires,” she said. “I remember the Malibu fires years ago. A friend of mine lost her home there. This is truly heartbreaking.”