As firefighters and volunteers in Los Angeles work tirelessly to fight the flames of the deadly Palisades, Hurst and Eaton fires and thousands of residents have been given evacuation orders, it sadly appears the city won’t be clear of these tragic fires anytime soon.

Countless homes have already burned to the ground, and at least 24 people have been reported dead. As nearly 100 mph Santa Ana winds fuel the fires, travel advisories are also in effect. The National Weather Service issued specific alerts for Ventura, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties. 

The Palisades fire is the largest of the three, spanning more than 23,000 acres as of Jan. 14. According to fire.ca.gov, the Palisades Fire was 17 percent contained on Jan. 14. The Eaton fire has already ravaged more than 14,000 acres and is nearing some popular and iconic museums and landmarks.

Both the Palisades and Eaton fires have already destroyed more than 30 historic, architectural structures, like Theatre Palisades and Will Rogers’ Palisades home, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Palisades Charter High School also fell to the flames. The filming location for popular films like Carrie (1976) and Freaky Friday (2003), this school suffered damage to 30 percent of its campus. Topanga Ranch Motel, a historic property dating back to 1929 and featured in Leather Jackets (1992), was totally destroyed. Popular attractions like The Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park, Norton Simon Museum, USC Pacific Asia Museum and Hammer Museum remain closed.

Travelers to Los Angeles face delays and changes in the coming days. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airlines issued flight waivers for customers traveling through select Los Angeles airports on specific flight dates. Check with your airline to receive the most up-to-date information on rebooking and refund options.

As of Jan. 14, Los Angeles International Airport and the Port of Los Angeles continue to operate without interruption. Stay up to date on current road closures in Los Angeles County. If in Los Angeles, also monitor the air quality and limit outdoor exposure accordingly.

How can you aid those suffering from the fires? Donate to reputable organizations like California Wildfire & Disaster Relief, American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles, California Fire Foundation, Pasadena Humane Society and L.A. Fire Department Foundation.

Experts ruled out lightning as the cause of the major fires, and Temescal Ridge Trail, the area where the fires originated, are free of power lines or transformers, ruling out another potential cause. Investigations are still underway as to the cause.

Have you been affected by the fires? Have you witnessed the fires? If you have other ways people can help those suffering from the fires, please send your recommendations. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.