EXCLUSIVE: Dallas Raines on LA’s Wildfires and the Unrelenting Winds
Dallas Raines, the Georgia-born chief meteorologist for ABC 7 News, has become a quintessential voice for Southern California, especially during times of extreme weather. This past week, hurricane-force winds and raging wildfires have carved a destructive path through the region, leaving devastation in their wake.
“This is one of the most stunning places in the world, but these winds and fires are things that we are going to have to deal with forever,” Raines bluntly stated on Monday, as he prepared to go on-air for the West Coast flagship of Disney-owned ABC.
Since the winds began gusting last week, LA County has witnessed fires scorching tens of thousands of acres, decimating thousands of homes and buildings, and forcing hundreds of thousands to evacuate. Over two dozen lives have been lost so far. The fire that roared up Hollywood’s Runyon Canyon on January 8 was extinguished quickly, and the Kenneth Fire is now contained. However, the Palisades Fire, the Eaton Fire, and the Hurst Fire continue to blaze, with residents still under mandatory evacuations.
with another red-flag warning in effect, more destruction seems imminent. The National Weather Service has issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning across most of the county, anticipating winds reaching up to 70 mph from 4 a.m. on January 14 until noon Wednesday. While the LAFD and other first responders are prepared to combat any new fires, turbulence could prevent helicopters and Super Soakers from taking to the air to douse the flames.Amidst this chaos, Raines spoke to Deadline about the past week’s events. The AP Award-winning weatherman, known for his distinctive name and expertise, also discussed what could be coming, where to get reliable information, and potential solutions to reduce Southern California’s relentless cycle of wildfires.
DEADLINE: “The past week has been gut-wrenching for our town, like all the worst parts of the Bible at once. But in all that, local TV and you guys on ABC 7 have been essential in keeping people informed about the wind movement, the fires, the devastation, and the efforts to combat the destruction. So, my question is, what has the past week been like for you?”
DALLAS RAINES: “Just doing my job, Dominic.”
DEADLINE: “More than ever, sir…”
RAINES: “Well, thank you, but you know, anything that we can do on this end, from a meteorological outlook, we just want to try every day to give our viewers and all of Southern California an chance to kind of…”
| Key Information |
|———————|
| Fires: Palisades, Eaton, Hurst still active |
| Evacuations: Hundreds of thousands displaced |
| Winds: Up to 70 mph, “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning |
| Casualties: Over two dozen lives lost |
| First Responders: LAFD and others on standby |
Stay informed and prepared as Southern California faces this relentless cycle of wildfires and extreme winds.For the latest updates, tune into ABC 7 News and follow the guidance of experts like Dallas Raines.
The Palisades Fire of 2025: A Predictable Disaster Amid Extreme Santa Ana Winds
Table of Contents
The Palisades fire, which erupted on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles, quickly became one of the most devastating wildfires in Southern California’s history. Fueled by extreme Santa Ana winds, the fire spread rapidly, leaving firefighters battling against near-unfeasible conditions. According to meteorologist Raines, the disaster was not entirely unexpected.“To be honest, I really wasn’t surprised about what happened,” raines stated in an interview with Deadline. “Because I knew that if a fire was ignited, that the winds would be blowing so hard that helicopters can’t fly.”
The fire, which began in the canyons of Mandeville Canyon Road, quickly engulfed homes and vegetation, driven by winds reaching speeds of up to 70 mph. Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, but the combination of dry conditions and relentless winds made their efforts nearly futile.
The Role of Santa Ana Winds
Santa Ana winds are a common occurrence in Southern California, typically occurring in the fall and winter months. These dry, gusty winds originate from the high-pressure systems over the Great Basin and flow southwest toward the coast. While residents are accustomed to these winds, the intensity of the 2025 event was unprecedented.
“These curve out once every 10 years, or so,” Raines explained. “Even though southern Californians are used to Santa Ana wind events, one of this magnitude can still be shocking.”
The extreme winds not onyl fueled the fire but also grounded aerial firefighting efforts. Helicopters,a critical tool in wildfire containment,were unable to operate due to the dangerous wind speeds. This left ground crews to battle the blaze alone, often in densely populated areas where homes were at immediate risk.
Forecasting the Disaster
Raines and his team at the National weather Service had been monitoring the conditions for days before the fire broke out. “I remember when we were working on this about eight days before the event itself,” he recalled. “I was saying, you know what, this looks really bad as far as damage.”
Despite their accurate forecasts,the challenge lay in communicating the severity of the situation without causing panic. “The real key is to try and forecast well enough in advance without scaring people,” Raines noted.
The Aftermath
the Palisades fire ultimately burned thousands of acres, destroyed numerous homes, and displaced hundreds of residents. The event underscored the growing threat of wildfires in california, exacerbated by climate change and prolonged drought conditions.| Key Facts About the Palisades Fire |
|—————————————-|
| Start Date: January 7, 2025 |
| Location: Mandeville Canyon Road, Los Angeles |
| Cause: Extreme Santa Ana winds |
| Acreage Burned: Thousands |
| Homes Destroyed: Numerous |
| Firefighting Challenges: Grounded helicopters, high winds |
Lessons Learned
The Palisades fire serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and effective communication during extreme weather events. As wildfires become more frequent and intense, experts emphasize the need for improved forecasting, community education, and investment in firefighting resources.
For more information on wildfire preparedness, visit Ready.gov.
Conclusion
The Palisades fire of 2025 was a tragic yet predictable event, highlighting the destructive power of extreme Santa Ana winds. As southern California continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change, the lessons learned from this disaster will be crucial in shaping future responses to similar events.
For ongoing updates on wildfire conditions and safety tips,follow the los Angeles Fire Department and the National Weather Service.
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Image credit: Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty imagesThe Ferocity of LA Wildfires: A Historical Perspective and the Battle Against Misinformation
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have left seasoned Angelenos stunned. “Old timers say thay’ve never seen anything like this,” remarked Deadline, capturing the intensity of the devastation. The ferocity of these fires has drawn comparisons to historic events, such as the great firestorm of Malibu in 1978, a blaze that veteran broadcaster Raines recalls as eerily similar to today’s crisis.
Raines, who didn’t grow up in LA but has witnessed its evolution, noted, “I was looking back at the great firestorm of Malibu in 1978. It was so close to what we had this time.” He added, “The population was half of what it is now, in terms of homes.” This stark increase in density has undoubtedly exacerbated the challenges faced by firefighters and residents alike.
Density and Disinformation: Dual Challenges
As Deadline pointed out, ”Density certainly has proven an issue this year.” But another pressing concern is the proliferation of misinformation. “Another issue we’ve seen this year, like we did late last year with the Franklin fires, is misinformation and disinformation,” the outlet emphasized.
Raines, reflecting on his long career in broadcasting, offered a solution: “You need to listen to a credible source. That’s number one.” He highlighted the shift from conventional media outlets like ABC, CBS, NBC, and CNN, where he pioneered weather reporting, to the current landscape where “people out there on the internet have all kinds of information.”
“The fact is that that information is out there, and people need to be pretty careful about what they’re listening to,” Raines cautioned. “Make sure that the information that they’re getting is correct and coming from a credible source.”
In today’s digital age, where “all kind of things are flying around,” Raines expressed concern over the lack of real, credible sources. This issue,particularly during crises like wildfires,can lead to confusion and hinder effective response efforts.
Key Takeaways from the LA Wildfires
| Key Point | Details |
|—————-|—————-|
| Historical Comparison | The 1978 Malibu firestorm closely mirrors the recent wildfires. |
| Population Density | Increased housing density has intensified the fire’s impact. |
| Misinformation | The spread of false information poses a meaningful challenge. |
| Credible Sources | Raines emphasizes the importance of verifying information from trusted outlets. |
Navigating the Information Landscape
As wildfires continue to ravage LA, the battle against misinformation is as critical as the fight against the flames. Raines’ advice to rely on credible sources like ABC, CBS, NBC, and CNN remains vital. In an era where digital platforms flood with unverified forecasts, discerning accurate information is essential for safety and preparedness.
The ferocity of these fires, coupled with the challenges of density and disinformation, underscores the need for vigilance—both in protecting our communities and in navigating the information we rely on.
Stay informed, stay safe.Police Take Security Measures on the Streets of LA County During the Eaton Fire
As the Eaton Fire continues to ravage parts of Los Angeles County, law enforcement agencies have stepped up security measures to ensure public safety. The wildfire, which has been described as one of the most intense in recent years, has prompted authorities to implement stringent protocols to protect residents and maintain order in affected areas.
“Police take security measures on the streets of LA County during The Eaton Fire,” as captured in a recent Getty image,highlights the urgency of the situation. Officers have been deployed to key locations,including evacuation zones and critical infrastructure sites,to prevent looting and ensure smooth evacuation processes.
The wildfire, fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, has already consumed vast tracts of land, forcing thousands to flee their homes. Authorities have emphasized the importance of adhering to evacuation orders, with police patrolling neighborhoods to assist residents and enforce compliance.
Key Measures Implemented During the eaton Fire
| Security Measure | Purpose |
|———————–|————-|
| Increased patrols | Prevent looting and ensure evacuation compliance |
| Road closures | Facilitate emergency vehicle access |
| Checkpoints | Monitor and control traffic in affected areas |
| Community outreach | Provide information and assistance to residents |
The Eaton Fire has not only posed a threat to property but also to lives, with firefighters and law enforcement working tirelessly to mitigate the damage. Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and follow safety guidelines to protect themselves and their families.As the situation evolves, authorities remain vigilant, adapting their strategies to address emerging challenges. The collaboration between police, firefighters, and community members underscores the collective effort to combat the wildfire’s impact.For real-time updates on the Eaton Fire and safety advisories, visit the official Los Angeles County emergency website. Stay safe,stay informed,and support those affected by this devastating event.Mitigating Wildfire Risks in Southern California: Two Key Strategies
Southern California, one of the most beautiful regions in the world, has long been plagued by wildfires, exacerbated by the annual Santa Ana winds. These fires, which ignite homes and devastate communities, are not new. They occur several times a year and have been a recurring challenge for decades. However, recent tragic losses have reignited conversations about how to mitigate these risks.In a recent discussion, RAINES shared two strategies that could significantly reduce the impact of wildfires.
1. Closing major Canyon Passes During Red-Flag Warnings
During red-flag warnings,which typically last 48 hours,RAINES suggests shutting down major canyon passes,allowing access only to residents. “Now I know, people say, that’s inconvenient. It is. It’ll be a slight inconvenience,” he acknowledges. Though, this measure could help protect the city.
For example, RAINES lives near Angeles Crest, where motorcycles were seen traveling up the road on Sunday, despite the dangerous conditions.”close down the major canyons and then get individuals working with their communities,” he emphasizes.
2. Community Watch Programs
The second strategy involves leveraging community members, particularly retired individuals, to establish neighborhood watch programs. “A lot of times, you could get people who are retired folks, who are just willing to give the time for the community, for their neighborhood,” RAINES explains.These volunteers could monitor their neighborhoods, identifying unusual activity. “If you see someone strange in your neighborhood at 10 o’clock in the morning, and you may not know all your neighbors, but [you can act],” he suggests.
Key Strategies to Mitigate wildfire Risks
| Strategy | Description |
|————–|—————–|
| Closing Canyon Passes | Shut down major canyon roads during red-flag warnings, allowing access only to residents. |
| Community watch Programs | Engage retired individuals to monitor neighborhoods and report unusual activity. |
While these strategies may not eliminate wildfires entirely, they could significantly reduce their impact. As RAINES notes,”This is arduous,so it’s not something we just say,oh,we’ll just do this,and it ends it. It doesn’t.”
Southern California’s beauty comes with challenges, but with proactive measures, communities can better protect themselves against the recurring threat of wildfires.
Call to Action:
Residents can take steps to support these initiatives by volunteering for community watch programs and advocating for stricter access controls during red-flag warnings. Together, we can build a safer, more resilient community.As red-flag warnings continue to impact Southern California, the conversation around safety and community responsibility has taken center stage. “Look, nobody loves hiking more than I do.I go to the canyons all the time, but I’m willing to sacrifice for our community to, you know, walk on the beach or do something else other than hiking the canyons during red-flags. It’s that simple,” says Raines, emphasizing the need for collective action during high-risk periods.
During these warnings, authorities like the fire department or the Sheriff play a crucial role in ensuring public safety. “they can just come up and say, hey, it’s red-flag warning you can’t be up here,” Raines notes, highlighting the importance of compliance with these directives.
Looking ahead, Raines predicts significant changes for the region. “Well, the population will continue to increase, for one. I predict too that they will wholly rebuild pacific Palisades,” he states. When questioned about the extent of this rebuild, Raines responds, “Why not? It’s the most beautiful area in the world, and people want to live and enjoy that.”
Though,he acknowledges the persistent challenges posed by natural forces. “But we have to know these winds are going to happen for as long as in our short lifetimes and beyond,” he adds, suggesting that proactive measures could mitigate risks.
Raines believes that stricter adherence to safety protocols could lead to a dramatic reduction in fire outbreaks. “You’d be surprised.I think you’d see a major drop in these types of outbreaks. It wouldn’t completely eliminate them,but I think you’d see a tremendous drop in these fires. I really do,” he asserts, offering a hopeful outlook for the future.
| Key Takeaways |
|——————-|
| Red-flag warnings require community sacrifice, such as avoiding hiking in canyons. |
| Authorities like the fire department and Sheriff enforce safety measures. |
| Pacific Palisades is predicted to undergo a complete rebuild due to its beauty. |
| Proactive measures could significantly reduce fire outbreaks in the region.|
As the region navigates these challenges, the call to action is clear: prioritize safety, embrace community responsibility, and look toward a future where both beauty and resilience coexist. For more on red-flag warnings and their impact, visit this resource.
Both strategies emphasize the importance of community involvement and proactive measures.
Closing Canyon Passes
This approach ensures that during high-risk periods, only essential travel is permitted, reducing the chances of accidents or human activities that could spark fires. By limiting access to residents, authorities can better manage traffic and emergency response efforts. While it may inconvenience some, the long-term benefits in terms of safety and fire prevention are significant.
Community Watch Programs
Empowering residents, especially retirees, to monitor their neighborhoods fosters a sense of shared duty and enhances local security. These volunteers can act as additional eyes on the ground, reporting suspicious activities or early signs of fire that might otherwise go unnoticed. This grassroots approach not only helps in fire prevention but also strengthens community bonds.
Conclusion
As Southern California continues to face the threat of wildfires, the need for innovative and collaborative solutions becomes increasingly urgent. By implementing strategies like closing canyon passes during red-flag warnings and establishing community watch programs, residents and authorities can work together to mitigate the risks and protect their communities.
Stay informed,stay vigilant,and support these initiatives to make a tangible difference in wildfire prevention.
Stay safe, stay prepared.
