#eaton canyon

[goodsniff]

Altadena plein air paintings

Sharing these now under very tragic circumstances after the Eaton fire. I spent 3 uninterrupted blissful weeks up in Altadena back in October on holiday just focusing on painting

Disappearing into the foothills almost every day brought a level of focus and peace that I'll be carrying forward into everything I do. I suspect all the natural splendour and calm I've attempted to capture here will be somewhere between irrevocably destroyed and severely affected for years to come.

If nothing else pls let this be a reminder to help support volunteers and rebuilding efforts! Donate if you can!!

[tuxedo-fish]

Eaton Fire Found Lost Pets

To anyone in Altadena/Pasadena/other Foothill areas who've had to evacuate without their pets, this Instagram has been set up to list pets found after the Eaton Fire. It also allows people who've lost their pets to post photos in hopes of getting them home. https://www.instagram.com/eatonfirefoundlostpets

[asterkurayami]

Yeah...that fire has grown and spread fast.

[fredthomasiii-blog]

Eaton Fire (Altadena) where did it start and how did it start?

[terrakan]

The Risks You Can’t See: Safely Rebuilding After a Wildfire

Wildfires are an ever-present reality in Los Angeles, with their destructive force reshaping landscapes, displacing families, and threatening health and safety. Each year, the flames remind us of the fragility of the environment and our homes. While evacuating and ensuring the safety of loved ones is the top priority during a wildfire, the aftermath can be just as perilous. The hidden dangers left in the wake of a wildfire are often overlooked in the rush to return home, but addressing these risks is vital to long-term health and recovery.

Stepping back into your home after a wildfire isn’t as simple as unlocking the door. It’s a calculated process that demands awareness and preparation. From air filled with hazardous particles to the possibility of unstable structures or toxic debris, the dangers are numerous. Mold, ash, and even displaced pests are just a few of the less obvious threats you may encounter. Each of these hazards has the potential to impact your health, safety, and recovery efforts.

The Hidden Hazards of Air Quality

The smoke and ash from wildfires don’t simply disappear when the flames are extinguished. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can linger in the air, affecting your lungs and overall health. Carbon monoxide and other harmful gases also pose risks, especially in poorly ventilated areas. In a city like Los Angeles, where winds can carry pollutants far from the burn area, even homes miles away from the flames can be affected. Monitoring air quality and taking precautions, such as using air filters or wearing protective masks, can reduce the risks significantly.

The Unseen Damage to Structures

Buildings may look intact, but intense heat and fire can weaken walls, roofs, and foundations. Electrical wiring and gas lines may also be compromised, creating potential hazards for fires or explosions. A visual inspection might reveal cracks or sagging roofs, but professional assessments are crucial to ensure safety before re-entering your property.

Environmental Hazards Lurking in Debris

The debris left behind by wildfires can be toxic. Burned materials release harmful chemicals into the air and ground, and ash may contain heavy metals such as lead or arsenic. Older homes may have asbestos that becomes airborne when disturbed by fire, posing severe long-term health risks. Soil and water contamination are also common in the aftermath of wildfires, necessitating thorough testing and cleanup by professionals.

Biological Hazards: Mold and Pests

The water used to fight wildfires often leaves homes damp, creating ideal conditions for mold growth. Left untreated, mold can cause respiratory issues and damage to your home. Wildlife displaced by fires, such as rodents and insects, may also seek shelter in your home, posing additional health risks. Both issues require immediate attention to prevent further complications.

How to Identify Post-Wildfire Hazards

Detecting these hazards isn’t always straightforward. Tools such as air quality monitors, gas detectors, and mold test kits are invaluable, but some dangers, like asbestos or structural instability, require the expertise of licensed professionals. Don’t rush to clean up debris yourself—contact environmental testing labs or home inspection services to ensure your safety.

A Plan for Safe Recovery

Returning home after a wildfire is not just about rebuilding—it’s about doing so safely. Equip yourself with the right protective gear, including N95 masks and gloves. Ventilate your home thoroughly and avoid touching or disturbing ash and debris. For structural and environmental assessments, always rely on qualified professionals. Document damage for insurance claims and take your time addressing each hazard methodically.

Final Reflection

Wildfires don’t just leave behind charred landscapes—they create invisible threats that linger long after the flames have been extinguished. By taking the necessary steps to address these hazards, you can safeguard your health and home as you begin the recovery process. Stay informed, seek professional help when needed, and prioritize safety above all else. Protecting your family, your property, and your well-being requires patience and preparation, but it’s a crucial investment in a safer future.

Resources for Los Angeles Residents

Los Angeles County Fire Department: Offers post-fire safety guidelines.

South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD): Provides real-time air quality updates

California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES): Connects residents to recovery resources.

Environmental Testing: Search for certified laboratories specializing in asbestos, mold, soil, and water testing in your area. Verify their credentials before hiring.

Read a more thorough blog here - https://www.terrakan.com/blog/Hazards-to-Watch-for-When-Returning-Home-After-a-Wildfire_97

[tabney2023]

HELP NEEDED for Desperate Families affected by the California Wildfires. PLEASE DONATE. PAYPAL (International), VENMO (USA), CashApp. These are displaced, working families, children and pets. My nephew, his wife and their 3-month-old son had to evacuate with short notice, leaving everything behind. My nephew and his neighbors’ houses burned to the ground. They are sharing a small space and are quickly running out of funds. Now, the Santa Ana winds are forcing them to relocate again. You can also contribute through Zelle (USA)--Teresa Abney--404.384.0696. Funds will distributed immediately to help these individuals and families obtain daily necessities, food, clothing, blankets, baby food, pet food, etc.

Entire blocks of destruction left rubble with nothing salvageable. People had to leave their homes with nothing but the clothes they wore. Many are dealing with emotional trauma, including fire fighters and responders who lost their homes also. Altadena in Los Angeles County, California is adjacent to Pasadena. The Eaton Fire started around 6:30 p.m. on January 7, explosively spreading and destroying over 7,000 structures, including churches, schools, historical landmarks, much of the downtown area, and family homes. Due to the rapid wildfires and Santa Ana winds, Altadena was entirely evacuated. It is a diverse community. Approx. 70% of houses were owner-occupied and 30% were renters. Many lost their fire insurance before the disaster.

[elizabethxzamora]

Tumblr fam , anything counts , even a repost

💔💔😢😢 my second home is gone 💔💔💔💔 the WHOLE CITY IS GONE 💔💔💔 please please please

[smallpuppy]

Altadena Fire Pt 3

Sherry texted me two photos on Wednesday at 2:49pm. One was of her neighbor Neal's property to the north, or what was left of it: stairs, a chimney, the front door concrete frame. The second was of her house and my house, grass still intact, front yards still with greenery. There was clear fire behind the houses and we couldn't tell if they were in our yards or in the houses behind us, but it was a temporary relief to see our houses standing. "Maria on the southwest corner said her house was burned." So that's 2 houses so far that confirmed burned on our street.

She texted me again at 7:59pm: "As of 4:30pm your house was standing - the deck was on fire - 2 guys were getting water from our pool and putting it out. Holly was able to get there for a few minutes." Whoever those two men are that helped, I am beyond grateful. I wish I could find their identities and thank them. Just putting out that fire in our backyard saved our house. I told Sherry I would make an attempt to go to the houses the following day since others managed to make it to take full photo assessment of the front and back of both properties. ----- Thursday at 11:15am, Daniel's coworker gave us a video call. "You guys are sooooo lucky." The call was spotty and lagged, but the image was clear enough: our property was 100% intact. Part of Sherry's property was damaged, but only in the back; her ADU where her daughter lived was burned but only on the exterior from what I could see, furniture, plants. The dividing wooden fence between our yards was completely burned but only up to the point where it aligned with my house, and if the wooden fence was actually installed into the ground things could have been a lot worse....the stone wall prevented rapid spread onto our land. The fence that fell was burned most likely landed on my lawn furniture that was donated to me by one of my friends and that's what started the fire there. I decided it was time for me to travel back home to see what I could in person. I arrived around 3:40pm and yes indeed, my house, Sherry's house, and the house to the south of me were all intact.

I checked Sherry's backyard first and took photos. her ADU where her daughter lived was only a barebones structure, and inside was nothing but ashes. Her front house was pristine. My house, garage, and shed were intact if not smelling a bit like char, but not on fire. I could see evidence of where the two men had put out the fire between our homes on the fence as well as our driveway gate that had charring on it and half collapsed, but clearly was extinguished.

The other houses surrounding us on all sides were not even remotely lucky. Aside from my neighbor at the south and his neighbor east of him, the houses behind myself and Sherry didn't make it. None of the other houses on our side of the street made it. Across the street, none. We certainly had gotten so lucky. ----- I went inside my house and photographed every room at the advice of friends. Things smelled like smoke, soot had made it through the door cracks and left piles (and now I know why the house got cold so quickly in the winter), and grabbed a few more things with me. Our Switches. More cat food. The Bible my Mima gave me when I was 7. Extra toiletries. Shorts for Daniel. Extra underwear and socks and shirts for us. One more sweater for me. An air purifier for my mom. The air purifier for my mom was most important as she has asthma and is staying in an AirBnB in Pasadena. She was staying there since Christmas due to construction on her house and refused to evacuate. She was worried sick about the status of her house, so I went to check. Still intact, or as intact as a house under construction could be. The entire neighborhood was safe, really. With my mother now at ease and myself at ease for the most part and a long drive back to Selly's, I chatted with my friends on Discord to keep me sane for the 2 hours drive and then I finally got a full night's sleep. But we're not out of the clear yet. There were going to be virtual meetings to attend on Friday.

[breathedreamscream]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kahlil Greene (@kahlil.greene)

[unstably-stable]

I hope this reaches you.

With the fires going on in California, I wanted to share how much I feel for the countless people who have lost their homes and loved ones. Having lived here most of my life, it feels like watching your hometown burn down around you. I am so so grateful that I have not been severely affected and send my sorrow, love, and prayers for those who have. I know I will in no way understand your pain, but I hope you get everything you need and stay with the ones you love.

This event has reminded me how blessed I am to live in my community and have my family around me. When I hear the school bell on Monday, I will no longer groan with irritation but be thankful that when the day is over, I will have a home to return to.

I pray for anyone who has suffered. I hope this reaches the right person.

[goodsniff]

Altadena Gauche Paintings 🍃

Finally pulled my finger out my arse and taught myself gauche 😑👍 Is good for ur brain

I have no fucking idea if the lovely place I was staying in is even still standing…Pls donate to recovery efforts if you can!!

[yayabang]

The winds have really picked up and it’s feeding the fires in my local neighborhood. This will be a devastating wild fire. 🥺

My heart 💔

[frequentpondcrosser]

Silent arroyo:

A lone doe mule deer crosses,

Live oak acorns drop.

[asterkurayami]

uhoh.

[datdisney]

My New Year’s Day tradition of wondering through the woods remains intact.

[terrakan]

Amidst the devastation of wildfires, our gratitude goes out to the firefighters, first responders, and communities who step up in times of crisis. Your courage, resilience, and dedication inspire us all.

See the impact and the heroes behind the efforts. Let’s continue to support, donate, and stand together during these challenging times.