Note from NASA SMD Regarding California Fires

Team SMD: JPL update. The Eaton Fire remains 0% contained although fire activity in the vicinity of JPL has reduced somewhat. No reports of physical harm to any employees or family members. However it appears that about 150 JPL staff have lost their homes, and this number will likely continue to increase as fires continue and more insight into damage becomes known. Over 1000 JPLers remain under mandatory evacuation orders.

On Lab, no fire damage to structures. Air quality is a significant concern and so testing is being done and mitigation steps taken (use of masks and respirators for examples as needed). The safety teams are all over it. A small crew has remained onsite.

The lab will be open only for essential on Lab activities next week, with nearly everyone working remotely. This will allow time to get the wind damage repaired, and make sure the building systems are all ready to receive the workforce.

Work is underway to provide immediate support for those most impacted by the fires and a fundraising page through Caltech should be launched today or tomorrow. I will share the link when it’s live. Temporary housing for those who have lost their homes or those whose homes are standing but not able to be occupied will be a major effort — JPL and CalTech are working to provide support to our team members on these and other issues