(NewsNation) — A rapidly moving wildfire in the Pacific Palisades area near Los Angeles has prompted mandatory immediate evacuations of area residents.
“Evacuate now from the area of Palisades Area. Those not in the evacuation area should shelter in place. Evacuation order for Palisades Fire,” the city of Los Angeles posted on X.
The fire was first reported as a “vegetation fire” around 10:30 a.m. PT but had spread 200 acres as of 11:45 a.m. due to strong winds, according to Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Erik Scott, reported NewsNation local affiliate KTLA.
“Fire is burning westward near the Pacific Palisades Highlands community with Rustic Canyon to the East & Topanga Cyn to the West are all under Evacuation warning,” Scott said, according to the outlet.
More than 100 firefighters and prepositioned strike teams were battling the blaze as of 11:30 a.m., David Ortiz of the LAFD said.
“This is pretty much the worst possible scenario for a firefight,” Ortiz said.
Pacific Palisades is a neighborhood of Los Angeles. It is unknown if any homes have caught fire.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement on X calling the wildfire a “very dangerous situation.”
“In preparation for high winds, LAFD pre-deployed strike teams in and near areas prone to wildfire,” she posted. “Firefighters are now actively and aggressively responding to the palisadesfire with support from regional partners. Angelenos in the area are urged to heed evacuation warnings and follow direction from public safety officials. Due to increasing winds, this is a very dangerous situation.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
