Deadliest Wildfires in California History
Explore the details of the top 10 deadliest wildfires in California state history, from the Camp Fire to the Eaton Fire, with this list from the WFCA.
Explore the details of the top 10 most destructive wildfires in California’s history and how they compare to the Palisades Fire with this list from the WFCA.
Published:January 14, 2025
Edited:January 27, 2025
Explore the details of the top 10 most destructive wildfires in California’s history and how they compare to the Palisades Fire with this list from the WFCA.
The January 2025 Greater Los Angeles Wildfires, which have devastated Los Angeles County, serve as a powerful reminder of California’s intense wildfire history and the unpredictable nature of these disasters. This article examines how the Palisades Fire compares to the most destructive wildfires in California’s history.
California’s notorious hot, dry, and windy weather pattern have consistently elevated the state’s wildfire risk. Historically, most wildfires have occurred between May and October. However, as recent events demonstrate, wildfires can ignite at any time of year, depending on factors such as rainfall variability and rising temperatures.1 This also serves as evidence that the concept of wildfire season is becoming increasingly irrelevant as the seasons have been expanding.
According to CAL FIRE, here are California’s top 10 most destructive wildfires.2
Fire #10: Glass Fire – Removed January 2025
Fire #9: Carr Fire – Removed January 2025
Structures: 1,643
Date: November 2018
Location: Ventura County
Acres Burned: 96,949
Deaths: 3
Cause: Electrical
Structures: 1,650
Date: October 2007
Location: San Diego County
Acres Burned: 197,990
Deaths: 2
Cause: Powerlines
Structures: 1,955
Date: September 2015
Location: Lake, Napa and Sonoma Counties
Acres Burned: 76,067
Deaths: 4
Cause: Electrical
Structures: 2,352
Date: August 2020
Location: Butte, Plumas and Tuba Counties
Acres Burned: 31,935
Deaths: 15
Cause: Lightning
Structures: 2,820
Date: October 2003
Location: San Diego County
Acres Burned: 273,246
Deaths: 15
Cause: Human Related
Structures: 2,900
Date: October 1991
Location: Alameda County
Acres Burned: 1,600
Deaths: 25
Cause: Rekindle
Structures: 5,636
Date: October 2017
Location: Napa and Sonoma Counties
Acres Burned: 36,807
Deaths: 22
Cause: Electrical
Structures: 6,837
Date: January 2025
Location: Los Angeles County
Acres Burned: 23,448
Deaths: 11
Cause: Under Investigation
Structures: 9,418
Date: January 2025
Location: Los Angeles County
Acres Burned: 14,021
Deaths: 17
Cause: Under Investigation
Structures: 18,804
Date: November 2018
Location: Butte County
Acres Burned: 153,336
Deaths: 85
Cause: Powerlines
As of January 10, 2025, there are four significant wildfires in Southern California: the Palisades Fire, the Eaton Fire, the Hurst Fire, and the Kenneth Fire. These fires have collectively burned thousands of acres; however, the Palisades Fire stands out as the most destructive. The Palisades Fire ignited on January 7, 2025, southeast of Palisades Drive in Los Angeles County.
As of January 13, 2025, the cause of the fires are still under investigation and an estimated 1,280 structures have been destroyed by the Palisades Fire alone.5 Even with this early estimate, the Palisades Fire is among the top 20 most destructive wildfires in California’s history.3
Over 20,000 acres have burned in the Palisades Fire, but it doesn’t threaten to reach the top 20 largest wildfires in California, with the list ranging from over a million acres down to 177,866. Even considering the fires collectively, it only brings the estimated acres burned to 28,896 as of January 10th.4 The Palisades Fire and Eaton Fires are especially impactful because it has occurred in a densely populated area, unlike most historical wildfires, which burn through rural areas.
Update as of January 27, 2025: The Eaton Fire has claimed 17 lives, destroyed 9,418 structures, and burned 14,021 acres,7 while the Palisades Fire has claimed 11 lives, destroyed 6,837 structures, and burned 23,448 acres.6
As wildfires continue to pose a significant threat to California, it’s crucial for residents, emergency responders, and communities to stay informed and prepared. Below is a list of essential resources for wildfire prevention, safety, and recovery, offering valuable information and assistance during fire season and beyond. Stay updated and ready by utilizing these tools and contacts to protect yourself, your family, and your property.
2025 Los Angeles Fires | State of California
Wildfire & Disaster Relief | California Fire Foundation
Wildfire Recovery Resources | CDFA
California Statewide Wildfire Recovery Resources | Cal OES
California Wildfires and Straight-line Winds | FEMA
What to Do After A Wildfire | WFCA
Explore the details of the top 10 deadliest wildfires in California state history, from the Camp Fire to the Eaton Fire, with this list from the WFCA.
Navigate the challenges of wildfire recovery with practical tips on managing insurance and restoring your home, provided with expert guidance from the WFCA.
Explore the details of the top 10 most destructive wildfires in California’s history and how they compare to the Palisades Fire with this list from the WFCA.