Universal Studios Hollywood will remain closed indefinitely due to the devastating wildfires sweeping through the Los Angeles area.
In the past 48 hours, multiple fires have ignited across the county, leading to widespread evacuations, five confirmed fatalities, and significant property damage.
Fires Break Out Across Los Angeles County
The Palisades Fire has emerged as the most destructive, engulfing over 17,000 acres and destroying more than 1,000 structures. This makes it the worst wildfire in Los Angeles County in recorded history. Other active fires include the Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire, and Sunset Fire, which forced evacuations in the Hollywood Hills yesterday.
Southern California experiences frequent wildfires due to its dry climate and abundant vegetation. However, current weather conditions are exacerbating the crisis. Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 100 mph, and the region’s driest start to the rainy season on record are complicating firefighting efforts.
Universal Studios Hollywood Extends Closure
Universal Studios Hollywood announced yesterday that both the theme park and Universal CityWalk would remain closed due to the hazardous conditions.
Initially set to reopen today, the park has extended its closure with no confirmed reopening date. “Out of an abundance of caution, Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk will be closed on Thursday, January 9, as a result of the extreme winds and fire conditions,” the park stated.
Local residents have shared images of smoke-filled skies surrounding the park, highlighting the severity of the situation.
This is a view from courthouse square on the backlot at Universal Studios Hollywood tree came out of the ground🤯🤯🤯
This is a view from courthouse square on the backlot at Universal Studios Hollywood tree came out of the ground🤯🤯🤯 pic.twitter.com/kQMsiRVWMv
— ThemeParkConductor (@themeconductor) January 9, 2025
Other Impacted Attractions
Other nearby attractions have also been impacted. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour and Los Angeles Zoo are currently closed, while Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita did not open yesterday.
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, about 50 miles south of the Pacific Palisades, remains open. Reports suggest Disneyland Hotel is offering emergency rates to cast members displaced by the fires.
The Walt Disney Company, whose Burbank offices are near the affected areas, has yet to issue an official statement. However, CEO Bob Iger took to Instagram to express his condolences. “I drove through Pacific Palisades today and witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by the fires,” he wrote. “My heart goes out to everyone who has lost homes and businesses, and to all whose lives have been impacted, including thousands of Disney employees.”
As the fires continue to rage, emergency services are working tirelessly to contain the flames and assist affected residents.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
