The 2028 Summer Olympics, to be held in Los Angeles, could be threatened as devastating wildfires edge closer to the city’s sporting venues including the Riviera Golf Club.
At least 16 people have died as a result of the deadly wildfires which have now destroyed around 10,000 structures.
After destroying homes in some of the city’s most affluent neighborhoods, the fires are now hurtling toward some of the sporting venues set for the 2028 Olympic Games.
The 100-year-old Riviera Golf Club is only 8km from the Palisades Fire which is currently only 11 per cent contained (based on numbers from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection).
Meanwhile, the SoFi Stadium (30km from Inglewood) and the Carson Stadium (45km from Carson) could be in harm’s way.
Evacuation orders are in place for areas just northwest of the UCLA campus, where the Olympic Village is to be held.
The National Weather Service has issued critical fire warnings for the region, with the flames expected to be further spread by winds of 80kmh.
Government advisory remains green
The Australian government is still marking the area as safe, meaning Aussies will be unable to claim insurance if they cancel their trip.
It notes that “local authorities have declared a disaster and public health emergency. Heavy smoke and ash have degraded air quality conditions in Los Angeles County. Power outages and road closures are affecting parts of Los Angeles County. ”
Australians are urged to “monitor local media for updates and follow the instructions of local authorities”.
Los Angeles Tourism
Los Angeles Tourism has released a statement to their social media, stating that their hearts are “broken” for the local community.
“The tourism and hospitality sectors acted swiftly to meet the needs of Angelenos and visitors. From securing hotel accommodation and support for those displaced to the restaurant community stepping up to provide meals during an urgent time of need, the efforts have been a testament to LA’s compassion and solidarity”.
It urges visitors to stay “informed and safe”, however it is not currently calling on a blanket ban for tourists.
Tourist Attractions
- Universal Studios Hollywood – Universal Studios shut on the 9th of January due to an “abundance of caution” but has since reopened.
- Disneyland – Disneyland remains open.
- Getty Centre and Villa – The world-famous art museum is currently closed and is braced for the fire.
- The Hollywood Sign – The sign has not been impacted, however, Griffith Park, the area the sign is in, has been shut as a precaution.
Travel and transport
- LAX Airport is open and operating normally, however, they advise passengers to check their flight with their airline carrier.
- Some major roads have been impacted. The Pacific Coast Highway is shut between McClure Tunnel in Santa Monica to Topanga Canyon. Drivers are advised to check road closures before they travel.
- Some train lines and bus routes have been impacted. Check HERE for more.
- The Port of Los Angeles has not been impacted by the fire.
