300 Oregon firefighters, 75 engines arrive in Los Angeles to aid in tackling Palisades Fire

The teams mobilized on Wednesday, hours after receiving a call for assistance from California.

300 Oregon firefighters, 75 engines arrive in Los Angeles to aid in tackling Palisades Fire
Courtesy of Oregon State Fire Marshal

Oregon Sends Massive Firefighting Force to Battle Historic Los Angeles Blaze

Fifteen Oregon strike teams have completed their journey to Los Angeles County, arriving Thursday after departing the previous day. The crews, consisting of 300 firefighters and 75 engines, represent one of Oregon's largest-ever out-of-state emergency responses. Their mission is to combat the devastating Palisades Fire.

The deployment includes equipment and personnel from across Oregon, with contributions from Portland Fire and Rescue, Port of Portland, Gresham, and various Washington County departments. Eleven strike teams joined the firefighting effort Friday, working alongside CalFire and other agencies to monitor hotspots and strengthen containment efforts.

The Palisades Fire has already consumed more than 20,000 acres and destroyed over 5,000 structures, marking it as one of Los Angeles' most destructive fires. After several days of uncontrolled spread, firefighters finally gained some ground Thursday night.

Los Angeles City Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley reported significant overnight progress, noting that crews concentrated on reinforcing containment lines and addressing multiple spot fires near Topanga Canyon.

The Oregon teams are committed to a minimum two-week deployment, with the possibility of extension based on conditions. Their arrival coincides with President Joe Biden's announcement of increased federal support, including 400 additional firefighters and more than 30 firefighting aircraft for Southern California.