Warning: Contains graphic images and video footage some may find upsetting.
Paris Hilton has spoken out about the ‘heartache’ of seeing wildfires sweep through California.
On Tuesday (January 7), the Pacific Palisades Fire erupted, hurricane-style winds blowing it through the Pacific Coast to Pasadena with multiple other wildfires having since broken out too, encircling Los Angeles.
By last night, it was reported the fire had led to the deaths of five people, residents urged to evacuate and a red flag warning issued by National Weather Service (NWS) Los Angeles and Oxnard CA in place until tomorrow.
LAPD chief Jim McDonnell said the winds are unlike anything he’d ‘ever seen before’ and more than 1,000 structures are reported as having burnt down, as per AP News, the fires having left Malibu’s coastline scorched.
Among the homes affected in Malibu is that of Paris Hilton, the businesswoman having taken to Twitter to reveal she and her family saw her home ‘burn to the ground on live TV’ which she notes is ‘something no one should ever have to experience’.
In a post shared earlier today, she wrote: “Heartbroken beyond words […] This home was where we built so many precious memories. It’s where Phoenix took his first steps and where we dreamed of building a lifetime of memories with London.
“While the loss is overwhelming, I’m holding onto gratitude that my family is safe. My heart and prayers are going out to every family affected by these fires. To all the people who have lost their homes, their memories, and their beloved pets. My heartaches for those still in harm’s way or mourning greater losses. The devastation is unimaginable. To know so many are waking up today without the place they called home is truly heartbreaking.”
Over 1,000 structures are reported as having been destroyed by the fires so far (ABC7)
Hilton noted her 11:11 Media Impact Team is already in touch with various nonprofit organizations to try and provide support for those impacted by the fires.
“We’re committed to offering help as soon as possible and making a meaningful difference for those who need it most,” she added.
The socialite thanked the ‘brave firefighters and first responders risking their lives to protect’ everyone’.
She continued: “You are true heroes. I am so grateful for your courage, dedication, and the incredible sacrifices you’re making to save lives and fight this unimaginable battle. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Wildfires have swept through California (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
Hilton ended the post by urging everyone to try and ‘stay safe’ as best as they can and ‘follow evacuation orders’.
She resolved: “Let’s protect one another and hold onto hope that these fires will soon be contained. Sending so much love and strength to all of you. We’re in this together, LA. Hug your loved ones a little tighter tonight. You never know when everything could change.”
You can support those affected by the fires by donating to the Red Cross online, by calling (800) 733-2767 or texting REDCROSS to 90999.
