What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of January 17, 2025, the Eaton Fire is burning in the canyons and foothills near Altadena and Pasadena, California (1)(2).

The fire is active close to Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive, and it is affecting areas with challenging terrain and high winds. Numerous communities near the San Gabriel Mountains and in the San Gabriel Valley are under threat and were instructed to evacuate.

The Eaton Fire has destroyed homes, vehicles, and the Pasadena Jewish Temple Center as of Wednesday morning and killed several people (3).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The Eaton Fire is currently impacting the numerous communities, including:

• Altadena
• Arcadia
• La Cañada Flintridge
• Pasadena
• Sierra Madre

The fire’s rapid spread due to shifting winds and dry conditions poses significant risks to nearby residential areas, local infrastructure, and critical facilities. Spot fires have been reported within these communities.

Air quality across Los Angeles was severely impacted by wildfire smoke, resulting in hazardous air quality from Pasadena to El Segundo.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of January 17, the Eaton Fire has burned 14,117 acres is 65% contained (4)(5).

Firefighters from multiple agencies, including the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Pasadena Fire Department and the United States Forest Service, are working aggressively to slow the fire's progress. Efforts have been hampered by extreme weather conditions, including high winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation, which contributed to rapid fire growth.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There are “LEAVE NOW” evacuation orders for numerous zones around Altadena, Pasadena, and Sierra Madre.

There is an evacuation shelter operating at the Pasadena Convention Center. Animal evacuation shelters include the Pasadena Humane, Industry Hills Expo Center, and Pomona Fairplex (Gate 3).

Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local officials.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.

As of January 17, 2025, this fire is 65% contained.