EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – While the Borderland experiences a winter wonderland, California grapples with a drastically different reality. Wildfires have scorched thousands of acres, leaving hundreds of residents displaced and uncertain about when life will return to normal.
One of those affected is Tina Aldana, an El Pasoan living in Altadena, California, who was forced to evacuate her home on Tuesday, Jan 7.
Aldana described the current situation as “apocalyptic,” with no electricity, dangerous air quality, and officials warning residents to not drink the water.
“The fire was all around us. So, we were driving through the fire,” Aldana said. “We wanted to make sure that we weren’t trapped where we live. So, we decided to quickly go in and out to get as many things as we could.”
Although Aldana’s apartment is still standing, she described her neighborhood as unrecognizable.
“The houses that are completely damaged… and the animals, the animals are really suffering right now,” she said.
Even for those whose homes remain intact, the uncertainty is overwhelming.
“We don’t even have answers as to when the power is going to come back on,” Aldana said. “We’re just running around with no answers as of today and the last 72 hours. That’s the scariest part — not knowing what’s going to come next, not knowing when we’re allowed to enter our homes. Even if your house isn’t damaged, you just don’t know when it’s safe to go back because of the air quality.”
The Red Cross El Paso chapter is preparing an emergency response vehicle to assist in California. Three volunteers are on standby, ready to deploy at a moment’s notice.
At this time, the organization is only accepting monetary donations to support relief efforts.
Those who wish to help can make a contribution here.
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