Bad weather forecasts are keeping tensions high in Los Angeles as one of North America’s largest cities battles wildfires that have already claimed at least two dozen lives and thousands of homes.
Here are some data that put the danger in which the city is in context.
The most destructive wildfires in California history — and how they compare to Canada’s biggest wildfire
The Palisades and Eaton fires are already among the most destructive in California history, burning more than 10,000 structures in just a few days. With persistent winds forecast, those numbers could rise even higher. For context, Canada’s most destructive wildfire — in Fort McMurray, Alta., in 2016 — destroyed an estimated 2,400 structures.
Mapping of previous damage
At least 24 people died in the fires that broke out on January 7. Entire neighborhoods were reduced to rubble, leaving behind an apocalyptic landscape.
How big is the Palisades Fire really?
While not the largest in California history, these fires are still huge. For example, the Palisades Fire has burned at least 20 kilometers since Jan. 11 — representing about 12 percent of Toronto and about the same share of Montreal.
After a wet start, most of 2024 was dry
Los Angeles entered 2025 in dry conditions, despite significant rainfall in early 2024. The dry end of the rainy season in September created optimal conditions for the rapid spread of fires to begin the new year.
How much does it burn each year in California?
For a country hit by devastating wildfires, the first months of 2025 are a grim reminder of the risks. While California endured two brutal wildfire seasons in 2020 and 2021 — burning nearly three million acres — the years that followed brought a reprieve. Data from Cal Fire, however, underscores the ongoing threat looming over the state.
