Saturday, February 1, 2025

Eaton Fire Reaches Full Containment After Devastating Altadena and Portions of Pasadena

The Eaton Fire was declared 100% contained by fire officials late Friday night. The wildfire, which started on January 7 above Eaton Canyon near Altadena Drive at Midwick Drive, consumed 14,021 acres. As it burned, it claimed at least 17 lives, destroyed over 9,400 structures, and changed Altadena and Pasadena forever.

“I am incredibly grateful to the courageous firefighters, first responders, and emergency personnel who worked tirelessly to contain the Eaton Fire,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger, who represents both Altadena and Pasadena. “Their hard work and perseverance is world class.”

Investigators continue to examine the cause of the blaze, with current suspicions focused on an electrical tower owned by Southern California Edison.

Massive recovery efforts by federal, state, county and local agencies are now underway. A flood of donations of money, food, and supplies has poured into the area to help those who lost their homes and possessions.

Insurance companies have paid out hundreds of millions to Eaton Fire victims so far.

Pasadena Unified, which lost five campuses to the fire, fully reopened all in-person classes and programs last Thursday, after shifting and relocating students to accommodate all 14,000 across its remaining schools.

Barger emphasized ongoing recovery efforts in her statement: “While the fire is now fully contained, my focus and undivided attention remains on recovery efforts, supporting those affected, and mitigating future fire risks.”

The containment announcement came alongside news that the nearby Palisades Fire was also fully contained on the same day.

“I will continue working closely with local, state, and federal partners to ensure our communities have the resources they need to rebuild and prepare for future wildfire threats,” Barger said. “Together, we will continue strengthening our response and resilience. The Eaton Fire has taught us all that we must remain vigilant and prepare for the unimaginable.”