California fires updates: Death toll in Los Angeles fires rises to 29

The additional fatality was attributed to the Palisades Fire, officials said.

Last Updated: January 27, 2025, 7:53 PM EST

At least 29 people have died as multiple wildfires, fueled by severe drought conditions and strong winds, rage across Southern California.

Thousands of firefighters have been battling wildfires across 45 square miles of densely populated Los Angeles County. The two largest fires, the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades and the Eaton Fire near Pasadena, remain active. One of the latest, the Hughes Fire in the Castaic area, has prompted evacuation orders for tens of thousands of people.

ABC News has kicked off "SoCal Strong" (#SoCalStrong), highlighting the impacted communities and offering fundraising opportunities for victims of the fires. The coverage will continue across multiple ABC News programs and platforms.

Latest headlines:

Here's how the news is developing.
Jan 24, 2:20 pm

Tracking ongoing California wildfires

The Palisades Fire, which began in the Pacific Palisades on Jan. 7, has destroyed or damaged more than 6,000 structures. It's covered more than 23,000 acres and is at 87% containment.

The Eaton Fire north of Pasadena also began on Jan. 7 and has destroyed or damaged more than 10,000 structures. It's burned over 14,000 acres and is at 95% containment.

Jan 24, 2025, 3:49 PM EST

Border 2 Fire spreads to more than 5,300 acres

The Border 2 Fire near the San Diego-Mexico border has spread to more than 5,300 acres and is 10% contained.

The Chula Vista Elementary School District said it’s closing eight schools Friday due to safety and air quality concerns.

Jan 24, 2025, 1:56 PM EST

Pennsylvania sends 40 firefighters to LA

Pennsylvania is sending 40 firefighters to Los Angeles to help fight the multiple wildfires spreading across the region, Gov. Josh Shapiro said.

"My Administration is proud to support national wildfire response efforts with these brave and highly trained crews who are answering the call to protect lives and communities," Shapiro wrote on social media. "Pennsylvania stands ready to help any state facing these unprecedented challenges."

A firefighter battles the Hughes Fire near Castaic Lake, north of Santa Clarita, Calif., Jan. 22, 2025.
Ringo Chiu/Reuters

Jan 24, 2025, 8:24 AM EST

Red flag warning will expire soon, rain coming this weekend

A red flag warning that’s been in effect across Southern California will expire at 10 a.m. local time.

The gusty winds -- which contribute to the spread of wildfires -- will decrease throughout the morning and then let up in the afternoon.

The Pacific Palisades Bowl Mobile Estates destroyed by the Palisades Fire is seen in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Jan. 16, 2025.
Damian Dovarganes/AP

Conditions will improve this weekend.

Humidity will increase and rain will reach Southern California on Saturday. The scattered showers will linger through Sunday and Monday.

There are no major flooding risks and an only 5% to 10% chance of significant debris in burn scars from the fires.

-ABC News’ Dan Amarante

Jan 23, 2025, 7:01 PM EST

Gov. Newsom signs $2.5 billion relief package for Los Angeles

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Thursday afternoon that directs $2.5 billion in relief to help support wildfire response and recovery efforts in Los Angeles.

"We're all in this together," Newsom said during a press conference announcing the passing of the bill Thursday afternoon.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom visits the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles on Jan. 8, 2025.
Daniel Cole/Reuters

The governor was joined at the press conference by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, Senate pro Tempore Mike McGuire, legislators and local leaders.

Newsom noted that California leaders "put politics aside" to deliver the relief package.

The governor said the funds will be made available immediately.

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