Saskatchewan woman loses home in Los Angeles wildfires

A former Saskatchewan resident is among tens of thousands left homeless as wildfires spread through various parts of Los Angeles.

Nadia Williamson, who owns a bridal shop in Santa Monica, dismissed the threat of approaching fires, which rarely affect her area. 

But her life changed dramatically when she spotted a smoke cloud in her rearview mirror while driving to work.

"Before I knew it, the whole entire Palisades was gone. Everything is gone," Williamson told CBC News.

"All the elementary schools, high schools, stores, you know, thousands and thousands of homes."

Following an urgent text from her neighbour about evacuation plans, Williamson returned home only to retrieve her two cats, leaving behind clothing and essential items. 

Williamson and her husband have temporary accommodation through an Airbnb in nearby Marina Del Rey. However, their long-term housing plan is unknown. 

Like many others, the couple struggles with sleepless nights amid constant emergency sirens and air traffic.

The disaster's impact extends beyond residential losses, with numerous businesses remaining closed and workers unable to perform their duties due to heavy smoke conditions. 

"There's a community of people that this has happened to. It's happening to thousands. So I don't particularly feel alone," said Williamson. 

"There's a really strong community here and everyone's really caring and generous."

The fires continue to pose significant challenges for emergency responders as they battle to contain the spread through several Los Angeles communities.