> At a Glance
> – January 7, 2025 marks one year since the Palisades and Eaton fires killed 31 people and destroyed 16,200 structures
> – Palisades Fire: 12 dead, 6,800 structures lost; Eaton Fire: 19 dead, 9,400 structures lost
> – Over 5,900 rebuilding permits issued across LA County and city as recovery continues
> – Why it matters: The fires reshaped Southern California’s landscape and tested community resilience
One year after the devastating January 2025 wildfires, Altadena and Pacific Palisades residents are rebuilding their lives and communities. The anniversary sparks reflection on the deadliest wildfire day in modern California history.
The Day Everything Changed
Powerful Santa Ana winds fueled two massive fires on January 7, 2025. The Palisades Fire erupted first in Pacific Palisades, spreading to 23,700 acres. Hours later, the Eaton Fire broke out above Altadena, burning 14,000 acres.
Both fires rank among California’s most destructive. The Palisades Fire became the ninth-deadliest and third-most destructive wildfire in state history. The Eaton Fire stands as the fifth-deadliest and second-most destructive.
Causes and Investigations
Federal authorities arrested a Florida man in October, determining the Palisades Fire started as a “holdover fire” from an earlier blaze that smoldered undetected. The fire reignited when extreme winds hit on January 7.
The Eaton Fire’s cause remains under investigation. SoCal Edison acknowledged a “possible connection” to their equipment but no official determination has been made.
Recovery Milestones
The rebuilding process began with a two-phase cleanup. The EPA cleared hazardous waste first, followed by debris removal handled by the Army Corps of Engineers or private contractors.
Cleanup by the numbers:
- Over 10,000 properties opted into the Corps of Engineers program
- Los Angeles city received 3,000+ permit applications (1,400 issued)
- LA County received 2,900+ applications (1,153 issued)
- Thousands of applications remain under review
Stories of Resilience
News Of Los Angeles reconnects with survivors who shared their experiences during the fires. Their stories feature in “Palisades and Eaton Fires: Devastation to Determination,” airing Monday at 5:30 p.m. on NBC4.
The docuseries captures both the horror of escape and the determination to rebuild. From seniors evacuating in wheelchairs to residents fleeing on bicycles through flames, these personal accounts define community resilience.
Key Takeaways
- January 7, 2025 stands as one of California’s deadliest wildfire days with 31 total deaths
- Combined fires destroyed over 16,200 structures across Altadena and Pacific Palisades
- Recovery efforts have processed nearly 6,000 rebuilding permits with more pending
- A Florida man faces federal charges for the Palisades Fire, while Eaton Fire cause remains unknown
- Community rebuilding continues with special anniversary coverage documenting the journey
The fires forever altered Southern California’s landscape, but they also revealed extraordinary community strength. As permits are issued and homes rise from the ashes, survivors transform devastation into determination.
