Eaton Fire: Business Districts Under Threat as Flames Spread to Lake Avenue in Altadena

Eaton Fire Update: Businesses on Lake Avenue in Altadena Face Devastation

The Eaton Fire, a rapidly spreading wildfire in Los Angeles County, has reached critical levels, with flames engulfing several businesses along Lake Avenue in Altadena. This article provides a detailed update on the situation, highlighting the impact on local businesses and the ongoing efforts to contain the fire.

Background of the Eaton Fire

The Eaton Fire began on January 7, 2025, near Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive in the hills above Altadena. Initially estimated at about 10 acres, it quickly exploded across 200 acres, then to 400 acres by 8 p.m. Tuesday, driven by Santa Ana winds that prompted critical fire danger warnings throughout the region[4]. As of the latest reports, the fire has spread to over 10,600 acres and remains 0% contained.

Impact on Lake Avenue Businesses

The spread of flames to Lake Avenue in Altadena has severely affected several businesses. Establishments such as Giant Steps, Theosophical Books & Library, and a Bank of America near the corner of Marcheta Street have been damaged or destroyed. Other nearby businesses, including Statewide Commercial Insurance Brokers, SCNC Leadership Academy, Steve's Pet's Store, Alta Wellness, and Lindsey's Liquors, are also under threat.

Current Situation and Challenges

Firefighters are working aggressively to slow the spread and protect critical infrastructure under extreme conditions. High winds and low humidity are posing significant challenges to containment efforts. Residents are urged to remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities as the situation evolves.

• Incident Facts:
  • Name: Eaton Fire
  • Start Date/Time: January 7, 2025
  • Incident Status: Active
  • Location: Near Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive, Altadena/Pasadena
  • Type: Wildfire
  • Cause: Under Investigation
  • Counties: Los Angeles
  • Administration Unit: Los Angeles County Fire Department, Pasadena Fire, and the United States Forest Services are in unified command
  • Size: Over 10,600 acres
  • Containment: 0%
  • Structures Threatened/Damaged/Destroyed: Multiple structures have been damaged or destroyed

Evacuation Orders and School Closures

Evacuation orders have been issued for several areas, including E016, PAS-E017, PAS-E018, PAS-E020, and SMD-E018. All schools within Pasadena Unified School District were closed on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, due to the fire[3].

Federal Assistance and Resource Allocation

California has secured federal assistance to support the response to the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County. Numerous firefighting air tankers are flying fire suppression missions as conditions allow. The resources allocated to the fire include:

• Engines: 79
• Water Tenders: 2
• Dozers: 8
• Hand Crews: 9
• Total Personnel: 702

Expert Insights and Actionable Advice

Experts emphasize the importance of following evacuation orders and staying informed through official channels. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local authorities as the situation evolves.

Conclusion

The Eaton Fire poses a significant threat to businesses along Lake Avenue in Altadena, with several establishments already damaged or destroyed. The ongoing efforts to contain the fire are challenged by high winds and low humidity. This article aims to provide a comprehensive update on the situation, focusing on the specific threat to businesses and the impact on local residents and infrastructure.

Additional Resources

For the latest updates and information on the Eaton Fire, please visit the official CAL FIRE website: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2025/1/7/eaton-fire/

References

[1] CAL FIRE. (2025, January 8). Eaton Fire: Incident Update on 01/08/2025 at 5:16 AM. https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2025/1/7/eaton-fire/updates/6be2af47-69a9-46d4-9768-ea62b5fd6a0a

[3] CAL FIRE. (2025, January 8). Eaton Fire: Incident Update on 01/08/2025 at 6:39 AM. https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2025/1/7/eaton-fire/updates/b67a41ef-480f-4ba7-88a1-c7c9f42c8284

[4] Pasadena Now. (2025, January 8). Eaton Fire Rampages Through Altadena and Pasadena Burning Dozens of Homes, Forcing Massive Evacuations. https://pasadenanow.com/main/eaton-fire-rampages-through-altadena-and-pasadena-burning-dozens-of-homes-forcing-massive-evacuations