Icon Taylor Swift has urged her supporters to assist in generating funds for individuals impacted by the catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles, California.
In a message shared with her 282 million Instagram followers, Swift expressed that “it’s been heartbreaking” to witness the devastation many families have suffered due to the various fires that have been raging across Los Angeles for over a week.
The wildfires have resulted in the fatalities of twenty-five individuals, with over 80,000 residents remaining under evacuation directives.
“The infernos in California have wreaked havoc on countless families, and it’s been truly heartbreaking to see these narratives unfold,” Swift stated.
“There is immense suffering, loss, and destruction. As numerous individuals face one of the most daunting periods of their lives, there are also incredible organizations and groups uniting to assist these communities as they work to rebuild.”
Swift implored her followers to “please” contribute if they were able, prior to detailing the organizations she has supported.
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‘Fire tornadoes’ possible during LA wildfires
She listed the following organizations:
- 211 LA
- California Community Foundation Fund
- Direct Relief
- Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation
- Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles
- Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
- Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
- Los Angeles Unified School District Education Foundation Emergency Relief Fund
- MusiCares
- Pasadena Educational Foundation Eaton Fire Response Fund
Evacuees in Los Angeles have been informed that they should anticipate remaining away from their residences for at least another week, as emergency crews work to eliminate hazardous waste from destroyed neighborhoods and deactivate electricity and gas lines that pose risks.
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Sky News catches up with wildfire survivor
The Palisades Fire on the west side of Los Angeles has scorched 23,713 acres (96 sq km) and was 22% contained as of Thursday, indicating that firefighters have managed to control that portion of the perimeter.
The Eaton Fire, which has consumed 14,117 acres (57 sq km) in the foothills east of the city, was reported to be 55% contained.
Combined, these two wildfires have charred 59 square miles (152 sq km) – an area exceeding that of Paris and nearly three times that of
Manhattan.
A series of smaller wildfires across Southern California have either been completely or largely controlled.
Read more:
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Over 12,000 structures – predominantly homes – have been destroyed or damaged, affecting 82,400 individuals who remain under evacuation orders, along with an additional 90,400 under evacuation alerts.
Recently, the benefit concert FireAid was announced to gather funds for relief initiatives following the wildfires, with notable artists like Lady Gaga and the Red Hot Chili Peppers confirmed to perform.
Billie Eilish is also slated to take the stage at the event scheduled for January 30, which will occur at two venues – the Intuit Dome and the nearby Kia Forum in Inglewood.
