Authorities are examining several possible ignition sources for the devastating fires that have claimed at least 11 lives and destroyed thousands of homes and businesses across Los Angeles.
In Pacific Palisades, an upscale area home to Hollywood stars like Jamie Lee Curtis and Billy Crystal both of whom lost homes officials traced the origin of the fire to an area behind a house on Piedra Morada Drive. This location overlooks a densely wooded arroyo, where the wind-driven blaze began.
While lightning is the most common cause of wildfires in the U.S., investigators quickly ruled it out, as there were no reports of lightning in the affected areas.
The investigation is now focused on two other leading causes of wildfires: arson and utility lines. John Lentini, a fire investigation expert, explained that regardless of a fire’s size, determining the ignition source involves pinpointing its origin and examining the surrounding area.
So far, there has been no official indication of arson in either the Pacific Palisades or Eaton fires. Additionally, utility lines, another frequent wildfire cause, have not yet been linked to the incidents.
Southern California Edison (SCE), which serves the area near the Eaton Fire in east Los Angeles County, filed a report with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). SCE stated there were no electrical anomalies or interruptions on its circuits in the 12 hours leading up to the fire but filed the report out of “an abundance of caution” after receiving legal notices to preserve evidence.
The investigation recalls past incidents, such as the 2017 Thomas Fire, where high winds caused Southern California Edison power lines to spark a massive wildfire that burned 440 square miles, killed two people, and destroyed numerous structures.
In addition to arson and utility-related causes, fires can be ignited by debris burning, fireworks, or accidents. A 2021 wildfire in California, for instance, was started by a couple’s gender reveal stunt, which burned 36 square miles, destroyed 20 structures, and claimed the life of a firefighter.
As of Friday, the Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires were still raging with minimal containment. Despite reduced winds, the dry conditions and lack of rain have allowed the fires to continue spreading across miles of parched terrain.
Fire expert John Lentini noted, “The fire will burn out when it runs out of fuel or when weather conditions change. Until then, containment efforts will be limited.”
The investigation into the origins of these devastating fires remains ongoing, as officials work to prevent future tragedies.
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