Should you cancel your LA trip because of the wildfires?

Is it Safe to Travel to, Through, or From Los Angeles Amid the Wildfires?

The recent outbreak of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles has raised concerns for travelers planning to visit, pass through, or depart from the city. While the situation remains challenging for residents, the answer to whether it is safe to travel to Los Angeles depends on various factors, including your destination, the time of your visit, and the latest developments in the wildfire situation. As of now, there has been no official request from Californian authorities for visitors to avoid the area. However, it is crucial to stay informed and follow local guidelines to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Are Flights Cancelled at LAX?

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), one of the busiest airports in the world, has remained operational despite the wildfires. With approximately 700 flights daily, LAX has not experienced unusual delays, and all services are running normally. Some passengers have reported seeing the fires from the air, but the FAA and airport authorities have not deemed flying in or out of LAX unsafe. Several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Southwest, and JetBlue, are offering fee waivers for flight changes, providing flexibility for travelers affected by the crisis. Nearby airports, such as Hollywood Burbank, Ontario, and Santa Ana John Wayne, are also operational and covered by these waivers. While flights are not currently delayed due to the fires, high winds caused some disruptions last week, highlighting the importance of checking flight status directly with airlines before traveling.

Is it Safe to Visit Los Angeles?

The safety of visiting Los Angeles largely depends on your specific destination within the city. The wildfires are primarily concentrated in the northern regions, with the largest fire in the Palisades area consuming over 97,000 square meters. Other affected areas include parts of LA County near popular tourist spots like Sunset Boulevard. A health emergency was declared on January 11 due to the hazardous wildfire smoke, which can lead to serious long-term health conditions even with brief exposure. Authorities have warned against swimming in the sea due to contaminated water supplies, and many businesses, including DoorDash, have suspended services to affected areas. Emergency services are stretched thin, and numerous local events have been canceled or relocated. While some areas of the city are still accessible, it is essential to evaluate whether your visit is necessary and to prioritize caution.

Are Major Attractions Like Disneyland Open?

As of January 15, several major attractions in Los Angeles remain closed due to the wildfires. These include Warner Bros. Studio, The Getty Center, The Hammer Museum, The Natural History Museum, The Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Hollywood sign and hiking trails. However, Disneyland and Universal Studios are still open, with Disney issuing a statement reassuring visitors that there is no need to cancel plans unless a significant portion of the trip involves the LA area. Airbnb is offering free short-term accommodation for displaced residents, but demand is high. Travelers with non-refundable bookings are advised to contact their hotels to discuss possible cancellations or changes, keeping in mind that their room may be needed by someone directly affected by the fires.

Is it Safe to Drive in Los Angeles?

While traffic in Los Angeles has improved since the initial evacuation congestion last week, driving in the city still poses challenges. Many roads remain closed, often with little advance notice, and Caltrans is regularly updating drivers via social media about the latest road closures. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to limit non-essential travel and avoid affected areas to allow public safety professionals to do their work. Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson emphasized the importance of keeping roads clear for emergency responders. With tens of thousands of people displaced and potentially returning home, as well as the risk of new fires breaking out, roads could rapidly become congested again. If driving is necessary, it is crucial to stay informed and exercise caution.

Is Public Transport Running in LA?

Public transportation in Los Angeles is operational, with LA Metro and Amtrak targeting their services to support those affected by the wildfires. LA Metro is offering free fares systemwide until the fires are under control, though some bus lines have been impacted. All rail lines are running as usual. Amtrak is also supporting evacuation efforts by offering reduced fares of $10 between San Diego and San Luis Obispo until January 24. Over 100,000 people are under mandatory evacuation orders, and an additional 89,000 are under evacuation warnings, making public transport a critical resource for many. However, the situation can change rapidly, and cancellations or closures may occur with little notice to ensure traveler safety. For those planning to use public transport, staying updated on the latest service alerts is essential.

How to Stay Informed About the Los Angeles Wildfires

For travelers, staying informed is key to making safe and informed decisions. TheDepartment of Forestry and Fire Protection provides a live, real-time dashboard showing the locations and containment status of the fires, as well as areas under red flag warnings. These warnings indicate conditions that are ripe for wildfires, and they serve as a signal for residents and visitors to remain vigilant. While the warnings do not necessarily mean travel is unsafe, they do highlight the need to be aware of the heightened state of alert among authorities and locals. If your trip is not immediate, consider checking the situation closer to your travel date, as conditions can improve or deteriorate rapidly. By staying informed and exercising caution, travelers can navigate this challenging situation safely and responsibly.