Landsat 8 Image of the Greater Los Angeles Fires - January 6, 2025 (Before)

Detailed Description
The tragic fires sweeping across the Greater Los Angeles area have burned more than 40,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,300 structures, and prompted evacuation orders and warnings for as many as 200,000 residents. Exceptionally dry conditions, coupled with strong Santa Ana winds, have fueled the fires. The largest blaze, the Palisades Fire, has burned nearly 24,000 acres in Pacific Palisades and parts of Malibu. The Eaton Fire, located north of Pasadena, has burned more than 14,000 acres and left the community of Altadena in ashes. The Eaton and Palisades fires are now among the most destructive wildfires in California history.
A band combination of shortwave infrared, near infrared, and red bands was used to highlight the burn scars, or the reddish-brown areas, in the image. Burned areas have high shortwave infrared values and low near-infrared values, whereas healthy vegetation has low shortwave values and high near-infrared values. The spectral contrast between the healthy (unburned) and unhealthy (burned) vegetation makes the burn scars distinct and pronounced.
By observing before, during, and after conditions, fire scientists, land managers, and community planners can assess the extent of damage and track recovery over time. Landsat’s long-term record also offers valuable insights into fire frequency, severity, and the resilience of ecosystems. These insights contribute to a better understanding of wildfire dynamics and aid in informing more effective management strategies.
Before image:
Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI)
Band Combination 754; Pansharpened with Band 8
Path 41 Row 36
January 6, 2025
View a Landsat 9 image captured on January 14th while the fires were burning here.
Compare the before and during images here.
Sources/Usage
Public Domain.