Getty Center Evacuates Due To Palisades Fire Threat

firefighting plane makes drops over ridges as the Palisades Fire burns in the hills

The Getty Center, a renowned cultural institution in the city, has initiated an evacuation process, with only a small team of emergency personnel remaining on-site. This decision came after the museum was included in an expanded evacuation order on Friday evening.

The evacuation order, prompted by the Palisades Fire, extends to Interstate 405 and the Encino Reservoir, encompassing the museum's vicinity. Fire crews are currently battling the blaze in the Mandeville Canyon area, as reported by the Los Angeles Fire Department.

The Getty Center, home to masterpieces by artists like Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin, announced its closure until at least Sunday. The museum's sister location, the Getty Villa, which houses Greek and Roman artifacts, also faced threats from the Palisades Fire this week.

Evacuation order extended to Interstate 405 and Encino Reservoir due to Palisades Fire.

The Getty Center evacuated with emergency personnel remaining on-site.

Fire crews battling blaze in Mandeville Canyon area near the Getty Center.

Despite the peril posed by the fire, the Getty Center's proactive fire mitigation efforts, including brush clearance and the installation of an on-site water tank, have played a crucial role in safeguarding its $10 billion collection. While vegetation on the property has been affected, the museum's structures remain unharmed, ensuring the safety of both staff and priceless artworks.

In a statement, Katherine E. Fleming, president and CEO of the J. Paul Getty Trust, expressed gratitude for the successful protection of the museum's assets, emphasizing that the institution remains unscathed amidst the ongoing fire crisis.