Every year, many people around the world come together and celebrate for a good start to the new year. This year, unfortunately, would start by being disastrous for more than 180,000 people. With four major fires burning–Eaton, Palisades, Kenneth, and Hurst–many civilians in the surrounding Los Angeles County area wonder what it would mean for them and their families.

On Tuesday, January 7, the Palisades Fire erupted near Malibu, California. What started as a brush fire turned into 24,654 acres by Saturday, January 11, according to NBC News. The fire was 11% contained. 

The Eaton Fire also started on Tuesday night in Downtown LA. It was at 14,117 acres by Saturday and was 15% contained. More than about 7,800 structures were damaged.

The Hurst Fire started on Tuesday night in Sylmar, a city neighboring north of San Fernando Valley, as a brush fire. By Friday, it was at 779 acres and was 76% contained. On the bright side, only two structures were damaged by this fire. 

Last, but most certainly not least, is the Kenneth Fire. It ignited on Thursday near Calabasas and was over 1,000 acres. It was at 90% contained by Friday night.

Many public facilities near these fires are temporarily closed due to the air quality, and around 116 were injured along with at least 16 casualties. Insured losses are estimated to be up to $8 billion. However, many different communities have assisted by handing out clothes, food, and other necessities to those who have lost their homes in the fires. While many people suspect the acts of arson to have caused these fires, the real start of the fires is unknown.

As Los Angeles comes together in times of crisis, so does the continent. Firefighters from both Mexico and Canada have crossed the borders to help put out the fires in LA. According to ABC7, more than 70 firefighters arrived from Mexico, while Canada’s team will arrive on Monday.