SoCal Edison Says Its Equipment Might Have Caused LA Fires

India-West News Desk

LOS ANGELES, CA – Southern California Edison (SCE), a subsidiary of Edison International, is investigating whether its equipment contributed to the ignition of two wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

The wildfires, including the Eaton Fire, began on January 7, causing significant damage, including fatalities and destruction of homes. SCE operates in areas affected by the Eaton Fire, which is under investigation.

SCE stated that recent evidence, such as videos from external parties, suggests a potential connection to its equipment. However, the company emphasized that no definitive signs—such as broken conductors or burn marks—have been found to indicate its equipment caused the fire.

The company plans to conduct a physical inspection of transmission lines in the Altadena area as part of its investigation, which is expected to take several months.

SCE also provided an update on the Hurst Fire, which started near Tower 6 north of Saddle Ridge Road. The cause of that fire is still under investigation, and the company is cooperating with fire investigators, it said. The Hurst Fire, reported on January 7, was contained by January 16, after burning approximately 799 acres.

SCE, along with other electric utilities, is facing increased scrutiny following these wildfires, which are expected to be the costliest natural disaster in U.S. history. (with inputs from Reuters)