Kenyan families evacuated as wildfires ravage southern California, US
A charred vehicle is pictured at the front of a burned home during the Eaton fire in Altadena, California, US, January 13, 2025.
At least two Kenyan families have been evacuated from their homes as wildfires continue to devastate Southern California in the US, according to the Kenyan Consulate in Los Angeles.
The wildfires have destroyed thousands of homes and killed 24 people in the Los Angeles area, as forecasters warned again of dangerous weather with the return of high winds this week. At least 16 people were still missing, and authorities said the number was expected to rise.
In an update on Sunday, the Consul General in Los Angeles, Ezra Chiloba, appealed to all Kenyan families affected by the wildfire to contact the consulate.
"We urge all Kenyans in Los Angeles to remain vigilant. Monitor updates from local authorities, follow evacuation orders promptly and prioritise your safety," Chiloba said in a statement.
The wildfires, fuelled by strong winds and dry conditions, have forced thousands of residents to flee their homes, posing a significant risk to life and property.
Chiloba thanked members of the Kenyan diaspora who have stepped up to help those in need.
"We take this opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation to members of our community who have opened their homes to host evacuees. Your generosity and solidarity is an example of the strength of our Diaspora," he said.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto has expressed his condolences to families who have lost loved ones and those who have suffered losses due to the devastating fires.
"Our thoughts are with all those affected. We stand in solidarity with you at this difficult time," said the President.
The Kenyan community in the US continues to rally together to support those affected by the crisis.
Elizabeth Nganga, a Kenyan living in Altadena, California, was forced to set up a GoFundMe to raise money from well-wishers after she was affected.
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out to help us during these devastating fires. Your financial support is greatly appreciated in helping us return to a sense of normalcy. I am a single mom and foster mommy with two kiddos and a fur baby named Promy,” she wrote.
She has so far raised $1,574 with a target of $2,800.
Another Kenyan only identified as Neomy said that they have had it rough after power was shut off for three days.
“We had power shut off for three days to prevent fires reaching us. We are grateful we are still able to be home even with power shut-offs. It’s been rough,” she said.
South African model Sihle Makhanya also shared her emotional experience on social media, recounting the frightening moments she witnessed as the fires spread rapidly.
"I'm traumatised because I saw the fire when it was just starting and I saw it grow," Ms Makhanya said in a TikTok video.
She described the harrowing scenes of people fleeing, some in wheelchairs, as they tried to escape the advancing flames.
She also expressed her frustration at the situation, noting that flights have been grounded, preventing even those with private jets from leaving the area.
As the fires continue to burn and residents remain on high alert, the Kenyan community in Los Angeles remains united in the face of this ongoing disaster, offering support and prayers for the brave first responders who are working tirelessly to protect lives and property.
The flames have reduced entire neighbourhoods to smouldering ruins, levelling the homes of the rich and famous and ordinary people alike, leaving behind an apocalyptic landscape.
Officials say 12,300 buildings have been damaged or destroyed.
Officials have also warned of fraudsters trying to take advantage of victims and issued a stern warning that anyone caught cheating on prices will be prosecuted.
The Kenyan consulate has not reported any deaths of Kenyans in the US related to the fires. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 2,000 Kenyans live in Los Angeles County.
