World
January 12, 2025 13:14
los angeles - Despite wildfires in Los Angeles, some celebrities continue to water their gardens, sparking anger among residents and authorities.
Since 2022, strict water conservation measures have been in place. Ordinary residents are allowed to water their gardens only twice a week, for eight minutes each time. Celebrities, depending on the size of their gardens, are allowed more, but some have still exceeded the limits. Kim Kardashian, residing in a $60 million mansion in The Oaks, an exclusive gated community near the epicenter of one of this week's fires, was fined by the city authorities for using 232,000 gallons of water (about 880,000 liters) more than allowed. It's unclear if the celebrities have been fined for their current behavior.
Other stars like Sylvester Stallone and comedian Kevin Hart have also faced fines. Kim Kardashian has reportedly taken water-saving measures, but anger among LA residents remains high. Celebrities are accused of contributing to the water shortage that is now affecting the firefighters.
Last night, a neighbor of the Kardashian family told the Mail on Sunday: "Everyone was told to use less water right now. Water is needed to fight the fires. They keep watering their garden because they can afford the fines."
There is also growing anger over wealthy individuals hiring private firefighters for $2,000 per hour to protect their properties. Chris Dunn, owner of Covered 6, which provides this service to Hollywood's elite, stated: "My phone is ringing off the hook. The demand has never been higher."
The wildfires have claimed the lives of at least 16 people, burned over 15,000 hectares of land, and destroyed 12,000 structures. Authorities are still searching for at least 13 people. An estimated 153,000 residents have been issued mandatory evacuation orders, with around 57,000 buildings still at risk. There are currently at least six active fires, with the Palisades fire being the largest.
Due to the spreading flames, thousands more had to evacuate their homes in upscale neighborhoods like Brentwood and Encino, where properties owned by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kamala Harris are located.