As wildfires continue to ravage the Los Angeles area, golf icon and Southern California native Tiger Woods is speaking out.
Woods was born in Cypress, California, about 72 miles from the Pacific Palisades area of ​​Los Angeles. The Palisades Fire is one of the largest and most destructive wildfires to hit the region.
Mr. Woods had remained publicly silent about the tragedy until Tuesday. He issued a statement saying his thoughts were with those affected by the devastating bushfires.
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Tiger Woods of the United States heads to the fourth tee during the third round of the 2022 PGA Championship at Southern Hills Country Club on May 21, 2022 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Andrew Reddington/Getty Images)
“The ongoing devastation of the Los Angeles fires is extremely tragic, and as a Californian, it hits home,” Woods said in a statement shared on his social media platforms. “My heart is with those who have suffered unimaginable loss. Thank you to the incredible heroes who were first responders to contain and save the Los Angeles community.”
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The 15-time major champion also vowed to release more details about his personal contributions to communities affected by the disaster.
Tiger Woods of the United States hits a shot from the 13th tee during the second round of The Players Championship at the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida on May 11, 2018. (Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
“In the coming weeks, we will provide updates on our own philanthropic efforts to support these communities. Stay strong, LA!”
Firefighters and first responders continue to work to fully contain the Palisades and Eaton fires that broke out last week.
The death toll rose to 25 on Tuesday. Officials have confirmed that at least eight people have died in the massive Palisades fire and 17 people have lost their lives in the Eaton fire. An estimated 35 people are still missing.
On January 12, 2025, a wildfire that caused extensive damage to residential areas in Los Angeles, California, U.S., entered its fifth day, and the damage continues. A panoramic view of the burned-out residential areas. (Lokman Vral Elibor/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Forecasters said strong winds in the area would increase the fire danger throughout Wednesday.
On Tuesday, Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley said the region was experiencing “life-threatening and destructive widespread winds,” which could spur the spread of new and existing wildfires in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. He said there is a possibility that he will.
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“Extreme fire danger will continue into Wednesday. The PDS Red Flag Warning is an extreme of extreme fire weather scenario,” NWS Los Angeles wrote on X (former Twitter name). “In other words, this setting is the worst. Be aware of your surroundings. Prepare to evacuate. Avoid anything that can start a fire. #cawx.”
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