Updated Wednesday, January 15
The Pacifica Safety Team has been ongoing in tracking the movement of the tragic fires impacting the Los Angeles area, as well as the recent Auto Fire in Ventura that started Monday night. The progress on that fire was able to be quickly stopped and is under control as of this Wednesday morning, without any damage to life, structures, or a significant amount of land. The larger fires in Los Angeles, notably the Palisades and Eaton fires, continue to burn, with emergency crews able to make some progress in containment in recent days. Red flag wind warnings are in effect through today in parts of Ventura and Los Angeles Counties (not in Santa Barbara), and we are monitoring any impact they have on the fire situation. Weather is expected to bring moisture in the form of higher humidity levels to the area later in the week and weekend, though, which can be beneficial to fighting and avoiding fire events.
The area of our campuses and the main roads and highways travelling to them, including those between Los Angeles, LAX, and campus, remain open and safe to travel on. Air quality is also in good status. Additionally, there are no PSPS events being considered that would affect either of the campuses for the upcoming sessions. We anticipate these safe and operational conditions to continue. At this time, campus remains open and accessible, with all upcoming scheduled class sessions week to continue as planned.
We are aware that there are a number of students and employees (or their loved ones) who have been directly impacted by these fires – we are actively working to understand and support their needs in whatever way possible. We also know some may be unable to travel or attend due to the circumstances. Your safety is priority – this includes not only your physical well-being, but also your psychological safety and mental well-being. We understand that this crisis can be stressful and overwhelming. Please reach out to the Office of People, Culture, and Belonging, your Program Chairs, and/or your supervisor for support needs. Links and information on resources available are also listed below.
For those coming from, to, or through Los Angeles, please check travel conditions and note that there may be heavier than normal traffic and potential visibility impacts on the highway due to smoke. Plan to give yourself plenty of time and remain vigilant as you make your way to campus.
Our Safety Team continues to closely monitor the situation. If campus status changes or updates related to community safety are necessary, the Safety Team will send prompt notification.
