Idaho’s Connection to California Wildfires

California's ongoing wildfires have can profound impact beyond state lines, resonating deeply with some Idaho residents, especially those with personal ties to the Golden State. Beyond that, Idaho firefighters are being deployed to California to assist.

If you're interested in keeping up on the latest information related to the current California Wildfires, here are some resources you can turn to.

California Migration to Idaho

In recent years, Idaho has experienced a significant influx of new residents from California. Many of those residents still have friends and family living on the West Coast who may impacted by the fires.

• 2022: Approximately 26,887 Californians relocated to Idaho, accounting for 30.57% of new residents from other states.
• 2023: An estimated 17,338 Californians moved to Idaho, with California being one of the top states contributing to Idaho's population growth.

Current Wildfire Situation in California

As of January 9, 2025, Southern California is grappling with devastating wildfires fueled by hurricane-force Santa Ana winds:

• Major Fires: The Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Lidia, and Sunset fires are among the most severe, collectively scorching over 29,000 acres.
• Casualties: At least five fatalities have been reported, with the death toll expected to rise.
• Evacuations: More than 293,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate, with numerous homes, businesses, and schools destroyed.
• Economic Impact: Initial damage estimates are around $52 billion, potentially making this the costliest wildfire event in U.S. history.

Staying Informed and Supporting Relief Efforts

For those looking to stay updated or assist:

• Live Updates: News outlets like ABC News and Fox News provide real-time coverage of the wildfires.
• Fire Tracking: CAL FIRE offers current information on active incidents.
• Air Quality: The California Air Resources Board provides updates on smoke and air quality.
• Donations: Organizations such as the American Red Cross and the California Fire Foundation are accepting contributions to support those affected.

Given the close ties between Idaho and California, staying informed and offering support during these challenging times is both meaningful and impactful.