As we know it, California is known for its vast cities, beautiful beaches and landscapes, and tourist attractions. However, wildfires have plagued the state for decades and affected many locations. Over hundreds of thousands of acres are burnt by wildfires alone in California. Not only do these wildfires devastate the land and environment, but also tragically end people’s lives.
Just recently, and still ongoing, the January 2025 Southern California wildfires are affecting Los Angeles and the regions surrounding the renowned city. These wildfires devastate thousands of businesses, museums, facilities, and, most importantly, homes. Residents continue to be forced to evacuate and are in search of help.
The wildfires began on January 7, starting in the Pacific Palisades area. The fires were caused by the region’s drought-like conditions and the powerful off-shore winds. The California Department of Forestry and Fire, also known as Cal Fire, reported that over 7,400 structures were damaged or destroyed. After the Palisades fire, the Eaton fire ignited near downtown Los Angeles and destroyed over 10,400 structures. According to Los Angeles County officials, nearly 27 people lost their lives due to the fires, with 10 deaths in the Eaton Fire and 17 deaths as a result of the Palisades Fire.
These fires are also taking a financial toll on California. The total economic losses are expected to reach $50 billion. JPMorgan, a financial services company easing mortgage repayment conditions for homeowners devastated by the wildfires, predicts that the insured losses could reach and exceed $10 billion.
Receiving relief from insurance companies was even more difficult for California homeowners. According to NBC News, State Farm, California’s largest home insurer, decided to remove homeowners insurance. However, California still provides relief through its Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Plan, which insurance companies fund. Despite being a last resort for homeowners, its use has risen from 154,500 residential policies in September 2019 to over 408,000 in June 2025.
For California residents, there are various sources for current wildfire information. Additionally, there are ways for residents of any state or country to help. Individuals can donate to the California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund, Wildfire Recovery Fund, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, Mercy Chefs, Salvation Army, Baby2Baby, Airbnb (providing housing), and many other organizations highlighted by ABC News. Clothing companies, including PacSun, UGG, Hoka, Pura Vida, and others are donating some of their profits to relieve California. Beauty companies such as Summer Fridays, Rare Beauty, and Benefit Cosmetics have also pledged to donate.