The UK Foreign Office warns travelers as wildfires rage in California, prompting evacuations and a state of emergency in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles: The UK Government’s Foreign Office has just put out a travel warning because of the wildfires tearing through California. This comes after the governor declared a state of emergency as the flames, driven by strong winds, have been racing through the suburbs.
Firefighters are hard at work battling the blaze, and about 30,000 people have been told to evacuate from the hillsides near the fire. The flames are currently ripping through the Pacific Palisades area, which sits between Santa Monica and Malibu.
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the fire has now spread over 1,200 acres. The Foreign Office is advising anyone in the area or thinking of traveling to Los Angeles to keep an eye on local news and follow the guidance from local authorities. This travel advice also extends to places like American Samoa and Puerto Rico.
They’ve said, “Fast-spreading wildfires are currently active within Los Angeles County. You should monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.” If you need help, they provided contact numbers for consular assistance.
On January 8, California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce the state of emergency, urging residents to stay alert and follow local emergency instructions.
Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley mentioned in a press briefing that the area is facing extreme fire weather conditions. The combination of strong winds and the local terrain is making it really tough for firefighters to control the situation.
