The Pacific Coast Highway has reopened following a closure necessitated by the Palisades Fire, with traffic now moving along the route as of Monday morning. The thoroughfare, affected by the fire, is open with limited lanes and speeds from Santa Monica to the Ventura County line. Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath said: "Essential traffic only is strongly encouraged" due to ongoing cleanup and repairs, warning that this will not be "the same PCH as before the fires."
The PCH had partially reopened on Sunday in Malibu, but reopening the Pacific Palisades section was delayed over public safety and looting concerns. The LA Police Department, transferring responsibility to the California Highway Patrol and the National Guard, will regain capacity to bolster citywide services, as stated by Mayor Karen Bass. Bass said: "We continue to adapt in real time to this dynamic situation," underscoring efforts to protect Palisades and manage police resources effectively.
Rain is expected from Tuesday, posing potential risks of mud and debris flows. The fires, starting amid heavy winds on January 7, caused widespread destruction. The Palisades Fire resulted in at least 12 fatalities and inflicted damage on nearly 8,000 homes and structures. Simultaneously, a fire in Altadena claimed at least 17 lives and affected over 10,000 buildings. Both fires were fully contained last week, finally allowing the phased reopening of affected areas. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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