On January 7, the Los Angeles fire crisis intensified as high-speed winds fueled multiple wildfires across the region, leading to widespread evacuations and property damage. Among the destruction, a McDonald’s restaurant was engulfed in flames, as seen in a widely circulated video on social media.
The Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires have forced thousands to flee, disrupted local businesses, and put many homes at risk. Authorities have declared a state of emergency in Los Angeles as firefighters battle to contain the growing blazes. The fires have also impacted several restaurants and iconic establishments, leaving a trail of destruction across multiple neighborhoods.
Los Angeles fires wreak havoc on the city's communities
The Los Angeles fire, particularly the Palisades blaze, has grown to nearly 3,000 acres, with mandatory evacuations stretching from Santa Monica to Topanga Canyon and Mulholland Boulevard. Over 30,000 residents are under evacuation orders, and an estimated 10,000 homes are at risk.
The Eaton Canyon fire, reported near Altadena, has led to additional evacuations in the surrounding areas. Mayor Karen Bass declared a state of emergency to accelerate response efforts as officials struggle to combat the fires amidst strong winds and dry conditions.
McDonald’s fire draws attention online
A McDonald’s location became a focal point of the Los Angeles fire coverage after a video showing the restaurant in flames went viral on social media. The video highlights the devastating impact of the wildfires on everyday establishments, emphasizing the widespread nature of the destruction.
While the specific location of the McDonald’s has not been confirmed, the incident underscores the vulnerability of businesses to such disasters, with many others in the region also facing closures or destruction.
Impact on local restaurants
Several popular restaurants and businesses across Los Angeles have been either closed or destroyed by the fires. In Malibu, the Palisades fire claimed the Reel Inn, Cholada Thai, Rosenthal Wine Bar, and Moonshadows, among others.
Altadena saw the loss of Rancho Bar, Side Pie, and Fox’s to the flames. Other establishments, such as Good Neighbor Bar, confirmed closures due to fire-related damage.
Power outages and mandatory evacuations have also affected restaurants in nearby neighborhoods. Businesses in areas like Burbank, East Hollywood, Highland Park, Koreatown, and Pasadena have announced temporary closures.
List of notable closures
Below are some of the restaurants affected by the Los Angeles fire:
- Malibu: Reel Inn, Cholada Thai, Rosenthal Wine Bar, Moonshadows
- Altadena: Rancho Bar, Side Pie, Fox’s
- Pacific Palisades/Santa Monica: Giorgio Baldi, Modern Bread and Bagel, Petit Grain
- Highland Park/Eagle Rock: Mala Class, Joy, Goldburger
- Topanga Canyon: Cafe on 27, Inn of The Seventh Ray
These closures reflect the widespread impact of the Los Angeles fires on the region’s vibrant culinary scene.
The Los Angeles fire crisis continues to threaten communities, displacing thousands and causing extensive property damage. The destruction of local landmarks, such as restaurants and businesses, highlights the widespread consequences of the wildfires. Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires, while residents hope for improved conditions and safety.