???????? ????? ???? ??: Troops Set Up Base Amid Ongoing Fire Efforts
Sama_El
Published on Jan 14, 2025
Santa Monica Closeup photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz captured the latest developments today, Monday, January 13, 2025, as the Palisades Fire aftermath continues to unfold. Residents in the affected zones remain under a voluntary evacuation warning, with restricted access to their homes. In a key development, the National Guard was seen setting up large military tents in the parking lot of Will Rogers State Beach, establishing a logistical hub to support local emergency operations. Their deployment enhances ongoing efforts by the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) to ensure public safety and maintain order in fire-affected areas.
As of Monday morning, the City of Santa Monica confirmed that the voluntary evacuation warning for areas north of San Vicente Boulevard remains in place, with residents advised to remain prepared for possible evacuation if conditions worsen. Other parts of the city have seen evacuation warnings lifted, but heightened security and monitoring persist. Entry points into Los Angeles, including Pacific Coast Highway, remain closed, with evacuation orders still active in adjacent areas.
The National Guard’s partnership with SMPD has strengthened the city's ability to manage traffic control points, assist residents returning to their homes, and secure evacuation zones. This enhanced coordination has been crucial, given the high winds and dry conditions that continue to pose a risk. A curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. remains in effect for all evacuation zones, specifically from San Vicente Boulevard north to the city limit. Since the curfew was enacted on January 7, SMPD has made over 40 arrests for crimes including burglary, drug possession, and outstanding warrants. Authorities stressed that the curfew is a necessary measure to prevent looting and ensure the safety of evacuated neighborhoods.
Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete expressed her gratitude to the community for their resilience and patience during this ongoing emergency. “Santa Monica is tremendously fortunate that fires did not cross into the city while many throughout the region are facing such catastrophic loss. We will continue to support our neighboring agencies, and our hearts remain with everyone impacted by this devastating emergency,” she said. The city’s community development team, in collaboration with local partners, is actively coordinating efforts to provide housing, business relocation, and school assistance for displaced residents from nearby areas.
In support of recovery efforts, Santa MoniCARES is working with local businesses and residents to gather donations, discounts, and special offers for first responders and evacuees. Additionally, Local Assistance & Disaster Resource Centers will open on Tuesday, January 14, at UCLA Research Park West, providing services and resources for affected residents.
City officials also warned residents to remain cautious of scams and price gouging, noting that state law prohibits price increases of more than 10% during declared emergencies. Those suspecting price gouging can contact the Santa Monica Consumer Protection Unit. Returning residents are urged to exercise caution due to potential debris and downed trees. Any immediate hazards, including downed power lines, should be reported by calling 911.
As recovery operations continue, the partnership between SMPD, the National Guard, and local agencies remains vital in ensuring community safety and supporting those impacted by the Palisades Fire.
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TAGS: Photojournalism, Photojournalist, Documentary, Cinema Verite, Fly-on-the-wall, Observational Photography, Press Photography, SMCU, SM©U
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