Ash And Other Dangers Mean LA Area Residents Who Fled Fires A Week Ago Won’t Be Going Home Soon

PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 14: A fire crew drives through a mobile home park that was destroyed by the Palisades Fire on January 14, 2025 in Pacific Palisades, California. The Palisades and Eaton Fires erupted hours apart one week ago during an unprecedented wind event that brought hurricane-force winds to the greater Los Angeles area. Both fires spread at a critical rate, with the high winds pushing embers into homes and raining down into neighborhoods miles ahead. Since starting, the fires have collectively charred nearly 38,000 acres, and an estimated 16,500 structures have been destroyed. The Palisades Fire is 17% contained, while the Eaton Fire is at 35% containment. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES (AP) — It could be a week or more before homeowners in the Los Angeles area are allowed to check on their fire-damaged properties. Authorities said Thursday that teams must first assess the threat of potentially toxic ash and debris left by the blazes that have blackened neighborhoods across the region. More than 80,000 people are still under evacuation orders, and many do not know what, if anything, is left of their houses, apartments and possessions. County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said residents eager to enter burned areas to see what’s left of their homes or search for valuables need to be patient. The rubble can contain asbestos, lead and other dangerous materials.