Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have issued a statement as they face potential evacuation due to the wildfires in California.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who live in Montecito, California, just 60 miles from the fires across Malibu, are at high risk.They currently reside in the town with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
As the fires continue to ravage parts of California including Los Angeles and areas such as the Runyon Canyon area of the Hollywood Hills, the couple said: “In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighborhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centers, and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life.
“A state of emergency has been issued. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas.”
They continued: “If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do. And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbours to see if they need help evacuating. Some families and people have been left with nothing.
“Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys and clothing, and other essentials. The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those in need.”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex face the threat of losing power to their mansion amidst raging wildfires. Fire crews are battling the infernos as thousands evacuate in search of safety.
The electricity providers in Montecito, where the royal couple’s “high fire risk” home has been since 2020, hinted at potential power shutdowns on Wednesday. This possibility brings about concerns for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who may need to relocate with their two young children for safety.
A spokesperson for Southern California Edison (SCE), a key electricity supplier in the region, mentioned that due to a Red Flag Warning indicating a heightened wildfire risk, they are contemplating a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in parts of Santa Barbara County. He confirmed that “affected customers” in various communities, including Montecito, were being informed.
Industry insiders suggest that the PSPS could impact approximately 4,000 customers in Santa Barbara, with all residents and businesses concerned already notified. According to an online property tool, Meghan and Harry’s residence is listed as: “This location is in a High Fire Risk Area. Power may be shut off during a PSPS to prevent wildfires.
“Increased fire risk conditions are expected in this area from 1/7/2025 – 6pm PST to 1/8/2025 – 9am PST. Be prepared for a PSPS during this time, although we may avoid shut-offs.”
Thousands of acres surrounding the upscale Palisades have been scorched, a plush coastal enclave with staggeringly valuable properties among the highest priced in the US. Utilities took decisive action disconnecting power to upwards of 8,000 residences as a precaution against potential ignition by live wires.
In 2017, a massive wildfire encroached on Montecito; it emerged mostly unscathed, suffering only superficial harm. The small town of about 10,000 has stringent fire prevention measures in force, ranging from regular clearance of dry foliage to mandating fire-resistant features in constructions.
Harry, 40, and Meghan, now 43, secured their $14.65 million abode in the summer of 2020, where they currently reside with their son Archie, who’s five, and Lilibet, their three-year-old daughter. The brutal wildfires raging across Los Angeles have laid waste to countless homes, including those belonging to celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Harrison Ford, and Billy Crystal.
Tragically, the inferno has claimed the lives of five individuals, as confirmed by authorities. Reports suggest that in excess of 1,000 houses have been lost, and over 70,000 folks have been forced to flee.
The Pacific Palisades, a posh Los Angeles neighbourhood and home to numerous A-list celebrities including Mandy Moore, Anthony Hopkins and Jamie Lee Curtis, is one of the areas most severely affected. All these stars have lost their homes in the ongoing devastation caused by the wildfires.
Some celebrities are returning to their properties to witness the heartbreaking damage. Star Wars legend Harrison Ford was seen looking sombre as he returned to his neighbourhood, while actor Ashton Kutcher lent a helping hand to friends impacted by the disaster.
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