Altadena Update: Friday, Jan. 10

Devastation in Altadena. Home of our friend and collaborator Gareth Peries, by his own camera.

Here’s what we know:

• 100% of Altadena is currently under an evacuation order. For your safety, please do not attempt to access your property or business at this time.
•  There are currently 43 hard road closures in Altadena, and this number may increase as resources become available.
• Once the fires are contained and the immediate threat from spot fires and winds subsides, evacuation orders will be lifted in phases. At that time, residents and business owners will be able to return home to assess the damage. We understand the need for insurance photos, but please remember that public safety remains our number one priority.
• Looting remains a significant concern, with 20 arrests made so far. Only one of the arrestees is from Altadena, meaning thieves from other areas are taking advantage of the situation.– We urge you not to return to your property at this time, as doing so will aid law enforcement in looter suppression efforts, which ultimately benefits all of us.–Multiple looter suppression teams are working across Altadena, and Sheriff Luna, along with Supervisor Barger, has made it clear that there will be zero tolerance for looting.

The Altadena Town Council is deeply saddened and heartbroken by the catastrophic damage caused by the Eaton Fire:

• Our town has been forever changed by the destruction, and many of us, including councilmembers, have lost our homes and businesses. We grieve alongside each and every one of you who has been affected by this disaster. Our schools, churches, restaurants, parks, water resevoirs, and many cherished historic buildings have been lost, some of which can never be replaced.
• We want you to know that you are not alone. We stand in solidarity with you during this incredibly difficult time. The spirit of Altadena lies in its residents, and we are committed to working tirelessly to bring you the most up-to-date information possible. While we are still in the early stages of recovery, we will soon begin to heal and rebuild together.