Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued a proclamation declaring Wednesday’s anniversary of the Palisades and Eaton fires as a day of remembrance and ordering flags at all state buildings to be flown at half-staff.
“As we mourn the victims of the Los Angeles fires, we also honor the first responders, community leaders and public servants who ran toward danger and went above and beyond to protect Angelenos,” according to the proclamation, announced Tuesday.
“We recognize the resilience of survivors who continue to rebuild, often carrying grief alongside hope. And we affirm a solemn commitment: California will not turn away. We will stand with these communities until recovery is complete, homes are rebuilt and lives are restored as fully possible,” the proclamation continued.
On Jan. 7, 2025, fires erupted in the Los Angeles region fueled by dry conditions and extreme Santa Ana winds. The two largest fires destroyed thousands of buildings and displaced people in Pacific Palisades and Altadena.
The Palisades Fire killed 12 people in the Pacific Palisades, Malibu and Topanga areas, while the Eaton Fire, in Altadena, killed 19 people. Firefighters fully contained the dual blazes on Jan. 31, 2025.
“Today, California remembers and honors those 31 people, grieving with their families and friends. We carry their memory forward, alongside the memory of all Californians lost to wildfires over the years, including those who perished in the Tubbs, Camp, and the North Complex fires. Their memory continues to shape our collective resolve today,” the proclamation said.
Los Angeles County Supervisor and Board Chair Hilda Solis and Mayor Karen Bass also ordered flags at respective government buildings to be flown at half-staff as well to mark the one-year anniversary of the fires.
“The damage was immense, but the care and support shown by neighbors, families, and community partners remind us that we stand together in times of crisis. Today, we honor all those affected and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring wildfire survivors have the resources and tools they need to rebuild their lives,” Solis said in a statement.
“May we move forward with renewed resilience and compassion as we work together to strengthen Los Angeles County for the future,” she added.