Navigating LA: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Amid Wildfire Woes

As of Thursday, January 9, wildfires are still causing mayhem throughout Los Angeles County, resulting in five fatalities, damaging over 2,000 buildings, and necessitating the evacuation of at least 130,000 residents. With smoke-laden skies and emergency teams fighting flames around the clock, numerous travelers are questioning if it’s safe, or prudent, to visit the area at this moment.

Here’s what you should be aware of regarding travel circumstances, safety measures, and possible interruptions if you’re considering a journey to Los Angeles amid the persistent wildfires.

Is it safe to journey to Los Angeles?

Safety is contingent upon where in Los Angeles you intend to visit. Emergency responders are currently tackling at least five active blazes that have ravaged over 28,000 acres. While the fires initially impacted northwest Los Angeles, they have since spread owing to arid conditions and hurricane-force winds, endangering neighborhoods in the Hollywood Hills. Travelers can stay updated with the Los Angeles Times’ live fire map, which offers real-time notifications regarding affected regions and evacuation zones.

Air travel continues to be mostly unaffected. Per LAX’s official website: “LAX is operational and functioning normally. Passengers should verify their flight status with their airline directly.”

For those driving, it’s essential to keep an eye on road closures and traffic situations, which can change swiftly. Updates can be accessed via the California Department of Transportation’s X feed for the most recent information.

Bottom line: Move with utmost caution

Should you decide to travel to Los Angeles, it’s critical to stay informed and proceed with utmost caution. Stay updated on the latest fire notifications, evacuation directives, and air quality warnings to ensure your safety.

Bear in mind, numerous residents are currently displaced, and emergency services are under significant pressure. Travelers should be considerate of the burden on local resources and prioritize safety above everything.

The post Should you journey to Los Angeles right now? What to be aware of regarding the wildfires appeared first on The Manual.