
Southern California’s wildfire crisis takes a dangerous turn as individuals release sky lanterns near a sensitive nature preserve, sparking outrage and raising concerns about public safety.
At a Glance
- TikToker captures group releasing illegal sky lanterns near Santa Barbara nature preserve
- Incident occurs amid raging wildfires in Los Angeles County, prompting mass evacuations
- Governor Gavin Newsom declares State of Emergency as fires threaten over 13,000 structures
- Sky lanterns, known fire hazards, are illegal in California and many other states
- Local authorities intervene to stop lantern launching after TikToker’s 911 call
Dangerous Sky Lantern Incident Amidst Wildfire Crisis
As devastating wildfires rage through Los Angeles County, a shocking incident near Santa Barbara has highlighted the ongoing threat to public safety. A TikToker witnessed and confronted a group releasing sky lanterns near a nature preserve, an act that could have potentially exacerbated the already dire wildfire situation in Southern California.
The TikToker, who had been working with fire victims, immediately recognized the danger posed by the sky lanterns. These airborne devices, which can reach altitudes of 1,500 feet, are known fire hazards and are illegal in California and many other states. The confrontation that ensued revealed a disturbing lack of awareness about the current wildfire crisis.
“I was watching them just light these lanterns and putting them into the air. They just kept launching more and more,” the woman said.
Crazy!
Los Angeles Wildfires: A State of Emergency
The sky lantern incident occurred against the backdrop of a severe wildfire crisis in Los Angeles County. A wind-driven wildfire, known as the Palisades Fire, has forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents, including those in celebrity homes. The situation has become so dire that California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a State of Emergency.
The sky lantern incident has raised serious concerns about public awareness and responsibility during times of heightened fire risk. Despite claims of having a permit, the group’s actions were not only illegal but potentially catastrophic given the current wildfire situation.
“Have you even gone down to LA? Do you even know what’s happening?” the enraged TikToker asked the group.
In response to the worsening wildfire situation, authorities have taken swift action. Over 25,000 individuals residing in 10,000 homes were at risk, according to Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley. The National Weather Service has issued its highest alert for extreme fire conditions, and emergency services are stretched to their limits.
Some people are so irresponsible it’s hard to imagine what’s going through their heads.