US: Emergency crews responding to wildfire in Pacific Palisades, California, Jan. 7

Emergency crews are working to contain a wildfire burning in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles County, California, on Jan. 7. The blaze broke out near Palisades Drive, and reports indicate the fire is spreading rapidly amid very strong winds in the region. Authorities said people near the affected area should be prepared for potential evacuations; those near the Pacific Palisades Highlands community with Rustic Canyon to the east and Topanga Canyon Boulevard to the west are all under an evacuation warning. Officials have closed Topanga Canyon Boulevard between Mulholland Drive and the Pacific Coast Highway, as well as part of the Pacific Coast Highway at Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

Smoke from the fire could noticeably worsen air quality in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas over the short term. Depending on the progression of the wildfire, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate communities depending on fire activity and the needs of response operators. Power outages are likely in affected areas. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall will likely contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.