LA County Accidentally Sends Evacuation Alert Countywide Intended for Kenneth Fire Area

Jan 10, 2025, 12:32 AM

A mistaken emergency evacuation alert was sent to all Los Angeles County residents just before 4 p.m. on Thursday, causing widespread confusion and concern. The alert, intended only for residents near the Kenneth Fire in Woodland Hills and West Hills near Calabasas, was erroneously issued countywide due to a technical error. LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn confirmed the alert 'was issued in error' and that there was no need for residents outside the affected area to evacuate. The alert instructed people to 'gather loved ones, pets, and supplies,' leading many to panic. The error was acknowledged during live broadcasts, with the alert sound interrupting programming. A correction was subsequently issued to inform residents of the mistake and to disregard the previous message.