As wildfires continue to ravage California and the greater Los Angeles area, extreme evacuation measures are being implemented.
While sports inevitably take a backseat to the preservation of life — with the fires already claiming at least 11 lives and possibly more — the disruption has extended beyond the immediate threat.
California residents are grappling with yet another round of devastation.
It’s forced those like Emmanuel Acho of Fox Sports to evacuate their homes and impacted local sporting events, including the wild card round matchup on Monday between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams, which has now been relocated to Arizona.
Although sports are secondary in light of such dire circumstances, it’s important to recognize when they intersect with people’s livelihoods.
That was the case late Friday night and into early Saturday morning when Fox Sports Radio announced a pause in live programming due to the ongoing fires. The fires have now placed its studio and the surrounding areas under an evacuation notice.
“Due to the fires spreading near the Fox Sports Radio studios, we are prioritizing the safety and evacuation of our staff. For the time being, we will be airing pre-recorded programming.”
“Thank you for understanding, and please stay safe. We’ll provide updates as soon as possible.”
Due to the fires spreading near the Fox Sports Radio studios, we are prioritizing the safety and evacuation of our staff. For the time being, we will be airing pre-recorded programming. pic.twitter.com/ZKR8K08ecx
— FOX Sports Radio (@FoxSportsRadio) January 11, 2025
Jared Smith, who hosts a show on Fox Sports Radio, quoted the message, relaying that there would not be a live show Saturday a.m. and perhaps the foreseeable future due to an evacuation warning near the Fox Sports Radio studio in Sherman Oaks.
“Please pray for the safety of my colleagues, friends, and everyone impacted by the devastating wildfires in LA,” Smith wrote.
We extend our thoughts and best wishes to all those affected by this devastating catastrophe, especially to the first responders and residents who have had their lives upended.
