 "A firefighter walks by a home on flames from the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighbourhood of Los Angeles, California. The fast-moving wildfire is threatening homes in the coastal neighbourhood amid intense Santa Ana Winds and dry conditions in Southern California. AFP")
A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for the Hollywood Hills as a massive wildfire sweeps through Los Angeles has reached the iconic mountain range.
At least five people have lost their lives, 2,000 buildings have been gutted into fire, and over 100,000 residents are facing evacuation orders.
An official from the fire department said that the blaze is “rapidly expanding”.
The fire is threatening Los Angeles’ major iconic landmarks as firefighters are working to bring it under-control.
Here are 7 things to know about the Hollywood Hills, where a massive fire is threatening a complete destruction.
Housing LA’s natural beauty
Hollywood Hills is known for its iconic landmarks and scenic views.
It is part of the Santa Monica Mountain range and offers a beautiful view of the city below. Lake Hollywood Park is a scenic viewpoint for visitors.
The name ‘Hollywood Hills’
This place place is closely linked to Hollywood, thus tracing the origin of its name.
Hollywood celebrities reside there, and it serves as the home to most of the major studios in the industry. The name ‘Hollywood Hill’ originates from a story from the early 1880s, when American businessman HJ Whitley purchased land in the area. He was also a real estate developer and named it ‘Hollywood’ to increase the value of the property.
Iconic Hollywood sign
The Hollywood Hills are home to the world-famous Hollywood sign. The sign originally read ‘Hollywoodland’ when it was erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development.
The sign wasn’t created to advertise movies and the film industry- it was created to advertise real estate.
A Haven for celebrities
Many celebrities and filmmakers have often chosen to live in the Hollywood Hills. The area stands out for its privacy and luxury for the celebrities, keeping them away from the curious eyes of the public and paparazzi. It is also in close proximity to the entertainment industry and studios.
Exclusive neighborhoods
The Hollywood Hills are home to some of Los Angeles’ most luxurious and prestigious neighborhoods. This including the Sunset Strip, Laurel Canyon, and the Bird Streets, renowned for their lavish estates and celebrity residents.
Iconic landmarks of Hollywood Hill
Hollywood Hill is home to several iconic landmarks, including Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Mount Sinai Memorial Park Cemetery, the Hollywood Reservoir, the Hollywood Sign, the Hollywood Bowl, and the John Anson Ford Theater.
Sunset Strip’s nightlife
Sunset Strip in the Hollywood Hills is famous worldwide for the its nightlife. It has clubs, bars, and music venues, as well as the upscale neighborhood.