The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) announced on February 1, 2025, that the major wildfires in Los Angeles County have been completely contained after three weeks of intense firefighting efforts.
The Palisades fire, the most severe, burned nearly 9,500 hectares, while the Eaton fire, which affected Pasadena, consumed approximately 5,700 hectares. Both fires are reported as '100 percent contained' as of January 31.
These wildfires, which began on January 7, forced the evacuation of over 150,000 residents and resulted in at least 29 fatalities and the destruction of more than 16,000 structures. The economic impact is estimated between $250 billion and $275 billion, marking this disaster as one of the costliest in U.S. history.
Recent heavy rains, the first significant storm in the area in eight months, aided firefighting efforts and led to the lifting of evacuation orders as the fires no longer posed a threat. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed hope for residents to return home and rebuild safely, emphasizing a 'zero tolerance' policy for looting in abandoned properties. Police Chief Jim McDonnell announced a tenfold increase in police presence to deter potential looting.