A chilling new theory emerges, suggesting a shocking explanation for what may have truly caused the devastating LA wildfire.
Evidence reveals potential fire rekindle as origin
A new analysis links the devastating Palisades Fire to the rekindling of a New Year’s Eve blaze.
The Washington Post suggests the fire reignited in the same area where a smaller fire was extinguished a week earlier. Residents criticized the slower response to the subsequent fire.
Palisades Fire: devastation and timeline
Satellite imagery analyzed by “The Washington Post” identified a burn scar from the New Year’s Eve fire.
Additional images from January 7 show smoke originating from the same area. This overlap raises questions about a potential connection between the two fires.
Meteorologist Rose Schoenfield warned that “life-threatening” winds could worsen the situation.
Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley emphasized the importance of community preparedness for the incoming wind events.
The Palisades Fire, the largest of three wildfires in Los Angeles, began on January 7. It has scorched 23,713 acres and is only 13% contained as of Monday.
On New Year’s Day, firefighters responded to the Lachman Fire in Pacific Palisades, reportedly caused by fireworks.
The eight-acre fire was declared contained by 4:46 a.m., according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).
However, satellite images reveal overlapping burn scars between the New Year’s Eve fire and the Palisades Fire.
Weather conditions worsen fire risks
Meteorologist Rose Schoenfield warned of life-threatening winds that could exacerbate the fires.
Dangerous conditions led to a red flag warning until Wednesday evening.
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone emphasized that displaced residents cannot return home until after the warning lifts.
Investigations into the cause
While the cause of the fires remains unconfirmed, investigators are examining potential links.
Experts like Michael Gollner from UC Berkeley highlighted the possibility of fires rekindling even after being extinguished.
LAFD spokesperson Margaret Stewart assured the public that crews remained at the New Year’s Eve fire to ensure it was fully contained.
However, radio transmissions suggest concerns about a rekindle in the same area.
Eyewitness accounts and responses
Resident Michel Valentine described a slower response to the Palisades Fire compared to the New Year’s incident. He said it burned for 45 minutes before any aerial assistance arrived.
Jacob Bendix, professor emeritus at Syracuse University, agreed that rekindling is plausible. He cited the absence of rain and gusty winds as contributing factors.
Expert analysis and official actions
Experts, including retired Cal Fire deputy chief Alan Carlson, pointed to consistent wind patterns and conditions that could have reignited the earlier fire.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is now leading the investigation into the fire’s origins.
Impact and aftermath
California’s wildfires have claimed 24 lives, destroyed over 40,000 acres, and caused losses exceeding $135 billion.
The Palisades Fire alone has forced 180,000 evacuations. Other fires, like the Eaton Fire, have added to the devastation.
Political responses draw criticism
Governor Gavin Newsom faced backlash after a controversial interview where he shifted blame to LA’s water system.
Similarly, Mayor Karen Bass’s video response to the fires received criticism for its perceived insensitivity.
The overlapping evidence and expert opinions underline the importance of thorough investigations to prevent future disasters.
Los Angeles residents remain resilient as they navigate the aftermath of one of the city’s most destructive fire seasons.