The recent Pacific Palisades fire, a destructive wildfire that ripped through the Los Angeles-area neighborhood, left a trail of devastation in its wake. Among the stories of loss and resilience emerging from the ashes is that of Sarah Purkart, an 83-year-old retired airline employee who lost her home of five decades to the relentless blaze. This is her story, a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of hope in the face of tragedy.
A Timely Evacuation Thanks to a Neighbor’s Kindness
As the fire rapidly approached her home, Sarah Purkart found herself in a perilous situation. Living alone, she received evacuation orders but was overwhelmed by the speed at which the fire was advancing. It was her neighbor, Carla, who stepped in to provide crucial assistance.
“I could see the fire coming and then the phone started giving me the information that I needed to evacuate,” Purkart recounted in an interview at Los Angeles’ West Recreation Center. Carla, recognizing the urgency, checked on Purkart and helped her prepare to leave. “She came over to check on me because I live alone and she helped me start getting ready. The fire came much faster and the evacuation came.”
This act of kindness proved invaluable. After ensuring her own family’s safety, Carla returned to help Purkart escape, a gesture Purkart deeply appreciated. “It was a true act of love,” she said.
Escaping with Precious Memories and Facing Unprecedented Devastation
With the fire closing in, Purkart managed to escape in her car. She had no money or identification, only a few cherished photographs of her ancestors and son. The intensity of the Palisades fire shocked her, surpassing any wildfire she had witnessed in her 50 years living in the area.
“I’ve never seen a fire like this,” she stated. The fire crossed south of Sunset Boulevard, an unusual occurrence, and impacted even wide streets like El Medio Avenue where Purkart resided. “Normally you don’t get it,” she explained, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the event. “This was totally out of hand. It was the worst wind I’ve seen in years.”
The Devastating News and the Uncertain Future
Initially finding refuge with friends, Purkart later received the heartbreaking news that her home was gone. While saddened, she wasn’t surprised given the fire’s ferocity. “I wasn’t surprised,” she admitted, “because of the intensity.” The loss of her home represents a significant life change, but Purkart is facing the future with remarkable resilience.
Looking Ahead: Rebuilding and Finding a New Home
Despite the immense loss, Purkart is focusing on the future. Insured, she acknowledged the high cost of rebuilding in the Palisades, where even vacant lots command millions of dollars. “Just the lot in the Palisades is $3 million,” she noted. Owning one of the original bungalows, she expressed reluctance to rebuild in the same neighborhood and doesn’t desire a larger house.
She is currently considering relocating, possibly to Vista, near San Diego, where her niece resides. Her son, who works for Boeing in Oregon, has been actively assisting her in obtaining replacement identification documents.
Reflecting on the Fire and its Underlying Cause
While the experience has been undeniably traumatic, Purkart maintains a realistic perspective. She acknowledged the inherent risk of wildfires in the area but emphasized the unusual weather conditions as a contributing factor. “I think there was always that chance of a big fire,” she explained. “I think it wasn’t necessarily the fire as much as the wind…This kind of weather is very unusual for us.”
Finding Strength in Community and Moving Forward
Purkart’s story is one of resilience, highlighting the importance of community support during times of crisis. From her neighbor’s selfless act to the assistance provided by friends and family, she has found strength in the connections she has built over the years. As she navigates the challenging road ahead, her story serves as a reminder of the enduring human spirit and the capacity to overcome adversity.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Pacific Palisades Fire
What caused the Pacific Palisades fire? The exact cause is still under investigation. However, strong winds and dry conditions likely contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
How can I help victims of the fire? Various organizations are providing assistance to those affected by the fire. Donating to reputable charities, volunteering time, or offering support to displaced individuals are all ways to help.
Are wildfires common in the Pacific Palisades area? While the area is prone to wildfires due to its dry climate and vegetation, the intensity and rapid spread of the recent fire were unusual.
What safety measures can residents take to protect themselves from wildfires? Creating defensible space around homes, having an evacuation plan, and staying informed about fire warnings are crucial steps to take. Being aware of weather conditions and adhering to fire safety regulations are also vital.
