Satellite images show trail of destruction caused by California fires

This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows homes damaged from the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Thursday. (Maxar Technologies via AP)

Satellite images captured by Maxar Technologies shows smoke emitting from scores of houses and a blaze engulfing a vast area in Altadena. As seen in the images, the fire has left the coastline along the famous Malibu neighbourhood scorched black, with buildings flattened to smoldering rubble. Another image, giving an elevated view of the neighbourhood near Marathon Road, shows plumes of black smoke emitting from the structures.

This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows an overview of the Palisades Fire burning in Los Angeles, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. (Maxar Technologies via AP)

As wildfires spread, a thick cloud of smoke and ash filled the skies of Los Angeles. Air and dust advisories have been issued for 17 million people across a vast stretch of Southern California, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The Eaton fire burned more than 5,000 structures, including homes, apartments, and commercial vehicles. Five school campuses in Altadena were also damaged in the fire.

This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows an overview of the Palisades Fire, left, and Eaton Fire burning in Los Angeles, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. (Maxar Technologies via AP)

In East Los Angeles, the air quality index hit an unhealthy 173. Good air quality is considered to be 50 or less. Dr. Puneet Gupta, the assistant medical director for the Los Angeles County Fire Department, told news agency Associated Press that wildfire smoke can cause heart attacks and worsen asthma, while burning homes can release cyanide and carbon dioxide.

California has deployed more than 1,400 firefighting personnel to curb the blazes, Governor Gavin Newsom was quoted as saying by AP. The Palisades fire is reportedly the most destructive one in Los Angeles’ history. The damage has surpassed that of the Sayre Fire of November 2008, which destroyed 604 structures in Sylmar, the northernmost suburb of the city, the AP report said, citing Wildfire Alliance.

During a White House briefing on Thursday, US President Joe Biden said he was making federal resources available and approved additional funding to help California battle the fires. Biden remarked that the blaze was the “worst fires to ever hit Los Angeles. Ever.” The new funding will cover 100% of the cost for 180 days for hazardous materials removal, temporary shelters, first responder salaries, and measures to protect life, he said.

Biden added that he was not in a position to answer whether California would continue to receive federal funding to help combat the fires after President-elect Donald Trump takes office on January 20. “I pray to God they will,” Biden said.

The wildfires have scorched over 77 sq.km in the Pacific Palisades, where several Hollywood celebrities own homes. The flames have burned down iconic landmarks, including Palisades Charter High School, which has been featured in many Hollywood productions, including the 1976 horror movie “Carrie” and the TV series “Teen Wolf.”

Actor Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice, lost their home of 45 years. Hollywood stars, including Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, and James Woods, were among those forced to flee.