Ex-Chicagoans, Former Mayor Lightfoot’s Relatives Among 180,000 Displaced by Raging Los Angeles Fires

Devastating Blazes Sweep Through LA, Leaving Thousands Homeless

Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s relatives, William and Minnie Washington, are among the estimated 180,000 people displaced by the raging wildfires in Los Angeles. The couple, who have lived in the same Altadena home for 60 years, fled their residence early Wednesday morning as the fires spread quickly due to high winds.

“It’s just so incredibly surreal,” Lightfoot said in an interview Thursday. “They lost everything, literally everything. They left with the clothes on their back…. The entire street is gone. I just thank God they were able to get out.”

Ex-Chicagoans Struggle to Cope with Devastation

Rebeca Soto, a 29-year-old artist from Chicago, also lost her home in the fires. She moved to Pasadena in 2022 and then to Altadena four months ago. Soto said the high winds and relentless fires were unlike anything she’d experienced.

“I could just see it spreading in the distance, glowing bright red,” Soto said. “It was horrifying…. I packed what I could in the dark and we got in the car.”

Residents Grapple with Uncertainty and Fear

Michael Jakubow, a 45-year-old resident of Hollywood, stuffed bags with his important documents as fire raged about a mile from his apartment. He took videos of his apartment in case he needed to provide proof for an insurance claim.

“When you’re that close to a fire you can see it, you can smell it, you can taste it,” Jakubow said. “It was surreal.”

Conclusion

The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have left thousands of people displaced, including former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s relatives. As the fires continue to burn, residents are struggling to cope with the uncertainty and fear of what’s to come. It’s essential to recognize the severity of climate change and its contribution to these natural and partially man-made disasters.

FAQs

Q: How many people have been displaced by the wildfires in Los Angeles?
A: Approximately 180,000 people have been displaced.

Q: How long have the Washingtons lived in their Altadena home?
A: The Washingtons have lived in their Altadena home for 60 years.

Q: What is the cause of the worsening wildfires in Los Angeles?
A: Climate change and its contributing factors are the primary causes of the worsening wildfires in Los Angeles.

Q: What is the current situation with the fires in Los Angeles?
A: The fires are still burning, and residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders if necessary.