'She said it’s apocalyptic' | SA mother describes daughter's experience losing home to California wildfires

SAN ANTONIO — A San Antonio mother says she’s grateful her daughter was able to make it out alive after wildfires tore through southern California this week.

“There were so many memories in that house,” said Peggy Korn.

Korn’s daughter Annabelle Williams grew up in San Antonio and has lived in California for the past five years. On Tuesday, the threat of wildfires prompted the evacuation of thousands, including Williams and her roommate. The following morning, a grim discovery was made.

“She lost the entire house. They’re just devastated, they’ve lost everything from top to bottom,” Korn said.

The Palisades fire and others have consumed communities.

“Everybody’s lost everything, she said it’s apocalyptic,” Korn said.

Korn said while her daughter lost material items that can be replaced, she’s just grateful to know she’s safe.

“She was thrilled to get out her cat and be alive but the devastation is real and the trauma is going to be real but she’s got such an amazing support system. She’s found a place to live temporarily until she can get up on her feet,” Korn said.

More than a dozen people have lost their lives to the wildfires, according to Los Angeles County officials. Over 10,000 structures, which includes homes, businesses and vehicles have been destroyed.

As the battle to extinguish the fires continues, Korn hopes everyone can begin to realize the impact community support can have on the road to rebuilding.

“I’m very impressed by the volunteer firefighters. There’s not going to be enough. Everybody needs to give if they can, anything, because these people are out there fighting this and they’re not having the resources that they need,” Korn said.