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Wildfire & High Winds Resources

Updated: 1/10/25 @ 5:11 p.m.

If you have experienced a loss during these fires, please file a FEMA claim so we can help begin the process of securing you the aid you deserve.

If you are looking for someone impacted by the January 2025 fires in Los Angeles County, or you want to inform your family of your safety wellness. Please, contact the Red Cross at (800) 675-5799.

High winds have increased the spread of wildfires in LA County this month affecting air quality, transportation, utilities, infrastructure, and demands on services for evacuees.

The Los Angeles County Emergency Incident Response website has been activated. This website provides a mapping tool and lists real-time evacuation, shelter and other information/resources related to the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire and other wildfires.

IN THE EVENT OF A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY, CALL 9-1-1.

Wind Safety

Strong winds can be dangerous to yourself and personal property.

Watch out for downed power lines: Never touch or drive over a fallen power line. If a power line falls on your vehicle, call 911 and stay inside until trained personnel can remove it.

Stay inside: If you are outside during high winds, find shelter immediately. Stay away from trees and power lines, and watch for flying debris.

Slow down: Keep a safe distance from vehicles in lanes next to you and watch for objects blowing across the road.

School Closures

The Los Angeles Unified School District has released a list of fire and wind related school closures that will be updated regularly. Visit the LAUSD website for information on digital access to academic resources, meal distribution, and other services for students and their families.

Check the Culver City Unified School District's website regularly for updates on school closures.

Power Outages

Southern California Edison Customers

Department of Water & Power Customers

Air Quality

LA County Department of Public Health urges everyone in areas where there is visible smoke or the smell of smoke or unhealthy air quality to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure and to limit physical exertion (whether indoor or outdoor), such as exercise.

The following recommendations will help you protect yourself and your family from harmful effects of bad air quality:

  • If you see or smell smoke, or notice particles and ash in the air, stay indoors to limit exposure, especially if you have heart or lung conditions, are elderly, or have children.
  • Keep indoor air clean by closing windows and doors. Use air conditioners that recirculate air to filter out harmful particles. Wear an N95 or P100 mask if you must go outside in smoky conditions for long periods of time in areas with heavy smoke or where ash is present.
  • Avoid air conditioners that only bring in outside air and don't recirculate. Check and replace air filters regularly. Filters labeled "MERV13" or higher are most effective for removing smoke particles. HEPA air purifiers can further reduce indoor particles.
  • If it's too hot to keep windows and doors closed and you don't have an air conditioner, go to a public place like a library or shopping center to stay cool and protect yourself from harmful air.
  • Avoid using fireplaces, candles, or vacuums. Clean dusty surfaces with a damp cloth and don't smoke.
  • If you experience symptoms like severe coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, palpitations, nausea, or unusual fatigue, contact your doctor or go to urgent care. For life-threatening symptoms, call 911.
  • When smoke lingers, fine particles may build up indoors even if you can't see them. Masks can protect against larger particles, but most don't block fine particles or toxic gases, which are more harmful.
  • Practice safe clean-up following a fire. Follow the ash clean-up and food safety instructions on the LA County Department of Public Health website.

For more health & safety tips, visit Wildfire Health Information & Smoke Tips.

Insurance

If you have been affected by the wild fires you can contact the California Department of Insurance with your insurance questions at 800-927-4357 or via their website.

LA County Assessor: "Misfortune and Calamity" Property Tax Relief

Property damaged or destroyed by the windstorms or wildfires may qualify for temporary property tax relief through the Misfortune and Calamity program.

For more information and to download the claim form (ADS-820), visit the LA County Assessor's website or call (213) 974-3211.

State and Local Resources for Los Angeles County

Food & Nutrition

Mental Health

Preparedness

  • Ready LA: Sign up for real-time evacuation notices and critical updates specific to LA County.

Transportation

  • LA METRO: Get info on METRO Service Impacts.
  • Report road blockages from trees, power lines, and other debris on the MyLA311 website or by calling 3-1-1.

Price Gouging

As reminded by Attorney General Rob Bonta in a consumer alert, price gouging during a state of emergency is illegal under Penal Code Section 396.

Californians who believe they have been the victim of price gouging should report it to their local authorities or to the Attorney General.

Stay Up-to-Date

Register for Emergency Alerts

Follow Los Angeles County Public Safety Partners on Social Media

  • Office of Emergency Management on X (formerly Twitter): @ReadyLACounty
  • LA County Fire on X: @LACoFDPIO
  • LA County on X: @CountyofLA