Years of litigation are anticipated as at least 31 wildfires have devastated Los Angeles and surrounding regions in the first week of January. Many factors, including long-standing drought, low humidity, and the hurricane-like Santa Ana winds, are believed to have escalated the fires. The Palisdades Fire and the Eaton Fire have been the most devastating, consuming nearly 24,000 and 14,000 acres, respectively. At least 27 people have died, and entire neighborhoods, schools, and businesses have been burnt down, displacing whole communities. According to J.P. Morgan analysts, the wildfires, still ongoing at this time of writing, is likely to result in more than $20 billion in insured losses alone.
Recent findings from retired arson investigators indicate transmission tower markings consistent with electrical arcing at the scene, challenging earlier claims that the fire was caused by homeless encampments or fireworks.
At the time of this writing, a judge has directed Edison International to disclose circuit data from the Eaton Fire’s origin and preserve equipment from the area. The fire, which killed 17, has sparked lawsuits alleging negligence, with residents blaming inadequate maintenance and the decision to maintain power during extreme winds.
