Stay Informed: Los Angeles Wildfires Update from Culver City - January 14th

City of Culver City sent this bulletin at 01/14/2025 05:30 PM PST

Stay Informed: Los Angeles Wildfires

Update - January 14th

While there is no Fire Watch or Red Flag Warning for the Culver City area as of Tuesday afternoon, weather officials warn the Los Angeles area is still in an extremely long period of high fire danger and gusty winds. Winds on Wednesday are expected to be significant in northern areas of Los Angeles County, but less than last week. Conditions are forecast to improve Thursday evening through Saturday. There are still no significant rain chances through the end of next week. LA County Public Health has issued a temporary order banning the use of power air blowing devices including leaf blowers.

Culver City emergency responders will continue to closely monitor potential impacts from the upcoming weather conditions. You are urged to remain vigilant, report safety concerns immediately, and stay prepared. It is important to sign up for alerts with the City through email, Everbridge, and Nixle. You can find those resources below. Please also be aware of potential scams as donation efforts continue.

There are still three active wildfires burning in Los Angeles County. Nearly 40,000 acres have burned, and it's estimated that more than 12,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed. At least 24 people have lost their lives and searches are continuing. The Kenneth Fire has been 100% contained and no longer considered an active wildfire.

Palisades Fire - 23,713 acres, 17% contained
Eaton Fire - 14,117 acres, 35% contained
Hurst Fire - 799 acres, 97% contained

The Culver City Fire Department has two fire engine companies and two Battalion Chiefs assisting with the Palisades Fire.

Culver City Unified School District announces schools and offices resumed regularly scheduled instruction this week. In an email to families, CCUSD cited improved air quality. Schools are equipped with MERV 12 air filters to keep classrooms clean and safe. Masks will be available for all students or staff who wish to use one. The district will continue to monitor ongoing changes in fire conditions.

At our parks, all permitted outdoor activities have resumed. We encourage residents to check if the air quality is right for them to enjoy our parks. As of Tuesday afternoon, the air quality was deemed "good" throughout most Culver City. You can stay updated with the latest air quality of the Culver City and Los Angeles area by visiting AirNow's website.

The Plunge has also reopened, and the Senior Center remains open with regular hours.

Culver City Police have free Disaster Ready Guides in English and Spanish available to help community members prepare their emergency plan. Guides can be picked up in the Police Department Lobby at 4040 Duquesne Avenue from 7 AM to 5 PM.

The Mobile Crisis Team (MCT) began wildfire and air quality related outreach last week and will continue similar expanded operations this week. The team has been checking in and distributing PPE (personal protective equipment, i.e. masks), clothing, and ready meals/food to our unhoused population. MCT have also teamed up with CCFD to distribute food and identify specific needs in the community. MCT is also checking in with and distributing PPE to our clients who are part of the master lease program at two local hotels, and at Project Homekey.

Previous Updates

Joint Statement from Culver City Fire & Police

"In light of the ongoing wildfire response efforts in neighboring areas, we want to assure the residents of Culver City that our staffing levels remain strong and fully capable of maintaining public safety.

The Culver City Police Department and the Culver City Fire Department have coordinated closely to ensure all necessary resources are in place. Our teams are committed to protecting our community while supporting the firefighting efforts in surrounding areas. The Culver City Fire Department continues to assist with the Palisades Fire and has recalled off-duty firefighters to ensure service levels within culver city are maintained. Additionally, the Culver City Police Department is supporting our neighbors by aiding the Santa Monica Police Department in evacuation, looting suppression, and humanitarian efforts.

We understand the concerns surrounding the wildfires and want to emphasize that the safety of our residents is our top priority. Strategic plans have been implemented to ensure that our emergency services can respond effectively to any incidents that may arise within Culver City, even as we assist with the regional response.

We appreciate the vigilance of our community during this time. As Red Flag Warnings continue, we ask that all community members immediately report safety emergencies by dialing 9-1-1. Please keep 9-1-1 reserved for emergencies only.

We also encourage residents to stay informed through official channels. Please visit CulverCity.org for updates on local impacts and enroll in local emergency alerts to stay informed. Please follow all safety protocols and directives from public safety professionals. Together, we can ensure our City remains safe during this challenging time.

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation."

Helpful Resources

For Life-Threatening Emergencies or Downed Power Lines

Call 9-1-1

Non-Emergency Police Response

Call (310) 837-1221

Receive Culver City Emergency Alerts

Enroll to receive emergency alerts
Or text “CCPD” to 888-777

Fallen Palm Fronds and Tree Branches

Call the Culver City Public Works Department at (310) 253-6420

Air Quality Information

Current Air Quality Data

Preparedness Information

Emergency Preparedness Resources

Community Connect

Community Connect allows Culver City residents to share valuable life-safety information with Culver City Fire Department first responders. Residents can provide details about their home, family, children, pets, medical or functional needs, and more, ensuring that when the Fire Department is dispatched to an emergency, first responders have as much information as possible before arriving on scene or have critical details about your residence in case of a disaster. Businesses can also create a profile. Learn more on the Community Connect website.

Southern California Edison & Power Outages

Call (800) 611-1911
Southern California Edison Outage Center

If someone in your household uses life-sustaining medical equipment or relies on electricity to manage a medical condition and is not currently enrolled in SCE’s Medical Baseline Allowance program, it is important that you let SCE know so that you are notified of any Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). You can Self-Certify at SCE's website. This information is also shared with first responders to be used in the event of an emergency.

Shelters Open

For up-to-date shelter locations, visit the Red Cross website. Pet-friendly shelters can also be located on the Red Cross website.

Information about Price Gouging

Price gouging during a state of emergency is illegal under Penal Code Section 396.Californians who believe they have been the victim of price gouging should report it to local authorities or to the Attorney General on the Office of Attorney General website. To view a list of all price gouging restrictions currently in effect as a result of proclamations by Gov. Gavin Newsom, please visit the California's Office of Emergency Services website.

Volunteering

If you are interested in volunteering, please visit the L.A. Works website. People can sign up to volunteer by visiting the Red Cross volunteer webpage.

Online Donations

LAFD Foundation (310-552-4139) - Visit donation webpage
American Red Cross (800-435-7669) - Visit Red Cross Disaster Relief webpage
Salvation Army (800-725-2769) - Visit SoCal Salvation Army website
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank (323-234-3030) - Visit the LA Food Bank website
California Community Foundation (213-239-2300) - Visit the CalFund Wildfire Recovery webpage
League of California Community Foundations (209-984-3955) - Visit the LCCF webpage
World Central Kitchen (202-844-6330) - Visit the World Central Kitchen webpage
GoFundMe - Visit the Wildfire Relief GoFundMe page
Disaster Animal Response Team (DART) (323-730-5300) - Visit the SPCALA website
California Fire Foundation (800-890-3213) - Visit the California Fire Foundation website
Direct Relief (805-964-4767) - Visit the Direct Relief website
Community Organized Relief Effort (323-934-4400) - Visit the Community Organized Relief Effort website
Baby2Baby (323-933-2229) - Visit Baby2Baby website

Physical Donations

YMCA Locations

4500 Sepulveda Blvd, Culver City (310) 390-3604
8015 S. Sepulveda Blvd, Westchester (310) 670-4316
433 S. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles (213) 401-1946

Accepting unopened food, clothing, blankets, emergency supplies, and dog/cat food.

Please contact 211 or visit 211LA before dropping off clothing or household items to ensure donations are accepted where needed. Financial contributions remain the fastest and most effective way to help those in need, allowing us to respond immediately with critical resources.

Disclaimer: The inclusion of non-profit organizations in this list is for informational purposes only. The City of Culver City does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee the services, activities, or legitimacy of any of these organizations. This list is not intended to be a comprehensive directory and does not imply any preferential treatment or approval. Individuals are encouraged to conduct their own research and exercise due diligence when selecting an organization for donations.

Culver City Hotels and Accommodations

Culver City offers a variety of accommodations within minutes from major destinations, shopping and freeways.

Boutique Hotels

The Culver Hotel
9400 Culver Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 558-9400
Mayumi
5630 Sawtelle Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 313-0000
Pali Hotel Culver City
3927 Van Buren Place
Culver City, CA 90232

Signature Brand Properties

Courtyard by Marriott LA Westside
6333 Bristol Parkway
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 558-9400
Four Points Sheraton
5990 Green Valley Circle
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 641-7740
Hilton Los Angeles
6161 W. Centinela Avenue
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 649-1776
The Shay, Destination by Hyatt
8801 Washington Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90232
(424) 361-6700

Motels

Half Moon Motel
3958 Sepulveda Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 391-5279
Paradise Inn and Suites
11750 Washington Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90066
(310) 390-4044
Ramada Inn by Wyndham
3930 Sepulveda Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 390-2189
Super 8 Motel by Wyndham
12664 Washington Boulevard
Culver City, CA 90066
(310) 306-8243
Travelodge by Wyndham
11180 Washington Place
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 853-5707

Be Mindful of Scams

Staying vigilant during crises like wildfires is crucial, as scam artists often exploit such situations. Here are some tips to protect yourself:

Verify Sources: Only trust information from official sources, such as government agencies or recognized organizations.
Be Cautious with Donations: If you're considering donating, research the organization thoroughly. Look for established charities and avoid giving personal information over the phone or through unsolicited emails and text messages.
Watch for Phishing Attempts: Be wary of emails or texts asking for personal information or urging you to click on links. Check the sender's email address and look for signs of phishing.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information like Social Security numbers or bank details.
Use Official Channels: If you receive a suspicious message, contact the organization directly using a verified phone number or website to confirm its legitimacy.
Report Scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to local authorities or consumer protection agencies.

Red Flag Warnings & Emergency Preparedness Information

A Red Flag Warning is issued to alert the community of critical weather conditions and potential fire hazards, typically within the next 12 to 24 hours. These conditions are characterized by a combination of dry brush and strong winds that create a heightened risk for fires.

So far, the City of Culver City has not experienced significant damage from this weather event. However, it is important to understand how we will communicate with you during an emergency, what the different notifications mean, and how you can best prepare for potential risks.

What Happens If a Fire Starts Nearby?

Evacuation Warning: If a fire were to ignite in a neighboring city, the strong winds could cause the fire to spread into Culver City. In such cases if an area of the city were to be at risk, we would issue an Evacuation Warning. An Evacuation Warning designates an area that could be at risk, and we recommend that residents who need extra time to evacuate—such as those with pets—consider evacuating during this stage to ensure a safe departure.

Evacuation Order: If a fire were to threaten a specific area of Culver City, we would issue an Evacuation Order. This means that the area is immediately unsafe, and all residents within the affected zone are required to evacuate and seek shelter. Access to the area will be restricted, and individuals will not be allowed to return to their homes, even to retrieve belongings.

How Will Residents Be Notified?

In the event of an emergency, we will use multiple communication methods to alert the public:

Everbridge Emergency Notification System
Door-to-door notifications
Sirens and public address (PA) systems

If you haven’t already signed up for emergency notifications, please do so as soon as possible to ensure you receive timely updates. Please visit the City of Culver City Website and follow City of Culver City, Culver City Fire Department, and Culver City Police Department official social media channels for continued updates.

Be Prepared: Create a “Go Bag”

Regardless of whether you live in a fire-prone area, it’s essential to be prepared for any emergency. Having a “Go Bag” ready ensures that you can evacuate quickly if needed. A “Go Bag” should contain essential items such as important documents, medications, clothes, and other necessities. Since Red Flag Warnings are becoming more frequent, it’s a good idea to keep your Go Bag near the front door for easy access if evacuation becomes necessary.

For more information on wildfire preparedness and to learn about CAL FIRE’s Ready, Set, Go! program, please visit the Culver City Fire Department website.

Questions?
Contact Us

STAY CONNECTED:

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES: Subscriber Preferences | Unsubscribe | Help

Translate