Firefighters in Los Angeles faced a challenging night as they battled two significant blazes on Wednesday evening. A brush fire erupted in the Hollywood Hills, prompting swift evacuations, while a separate structure fire broke out in Studio City, putting additional strain on fire crews.
Sunset Fire in Hollywood Hills
A brush fire broke out near 2350 N. Solar Drive in the Hollywood Hills just after 5:30 p.m. This fast-moving brush fire spread rapidly, covering approximately 60 acres by 9:25 p.m. Its proximity to the densely populated area below Runyon Canyon caused chaotic evacuations and massive traffic jams as residents fled their homes.
Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, drawing water from the nearby Hollywood Reservoir to facilitate aerial drops. Helicopters focused on the southwestern edge of the fire, where activity was most intense. Ground crews also played a pivotal role, using fire roads and creating barriers to halt the fire’s advance. By evening, the eastern perimeter of the fire showed signs of stabilization, though smoldering hotspots remained within the burn zone.
The chaotic evacuation process gradually subsided as the Los Angeles Police Department stepped in to manage traffic. City officials, including Mayor Karen Bass, coordinated efforts to redirect traffic and ensure fire vehicles could move freely. By 9 p.m., the streets began to clear, though ash still rained down on the area, and smoke filled the air.
Residents faced difficult decisions during the evacuations. David Potts, a longtime resident near Runyon Canyon, chose to stay behind to protect his property. Armed with a garden hose, he sprayed his house and yard while monitoring the progress of water drops from helicopters. His efforts, combined with those of firefighters, helped protect his home and the surrounding area.
Studio City Structure Fire
Just before 9 p.m., another fire erupted at a four-story hillside home located at 3656 N. Sunswept Drive in Studio City. The structure fire presented unique challenges due to its location on winding roads surrounded by dense vegetation. Firefighters deployed aerial water drops alongside ground efforts to extinguish the flames.
More than 50 firefighters worked on the scene, managing to knock down the fire within an hour. The coordinated response prevented the blaze from spreading to nearby homes, which were surrounded by dry brush that posed a significant risk.
Evacuation Zones and Community Support
In response to the Hollywood Hills fire, officials established an evacuation zone bordered by the 101 Freeway to the east, Laurel Canyon to the west, Mulholland Drive to the north, and Hollywood Boulevard to the south. Residents outside this zone, extending to Sunset Boulevard and Coldwater Canyon Drive, were advised to prepare for possible evacuation.
To support those displaced, a temporary shelter was set up at Pan Pacific Recreation Center. Emergency services provided assistance, ensuring evacuees had access to basic necessities and a safe place to stay.
Challenges Faced by Firefighters
The dual blazes added to an already overwhelming fire season for Los Angeles. More than 2,000 structures have been destroyed across the county, with at least five fatalities reported. High winds that fueled the fires earlier in the week had subsided slightly by Wednesday night, but the danger remained elevated due to dry conditions.
Fire officials commended the rapid response and use of water-dropping helicopters, which were instrumental in preventing further devastation. The proximity of the Hollywood Reservoir allowed for frequent refills, enabling helicopters to make water drops every 10 minutes.
Looking Ahead
As crews continue to monitor smoldering areas and strengthen containment lines, residents are urged to stay alert and heed evacuation warnings. While progress has been made in controlling the fires, the situation underscores the ongoing challenges of fire season in Southern California.
Local authorities remain committed to ensuring public safety, and additional resources have been deployed to aid recovery efforts in affected areas.