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Google Maps Says Glitch Reverted LA Wildfire Areas to Pre-Fire Images

The mix-up raises trust questions for residents in fire zones during a heated mayoral primary.

Overview

  • Maps users, including mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt, noticed Monday that satellite views showed Palisades and Altadena as if the 2025 fires never happened.
  • Google said a routine imagery update accidentally restored older photos and it is rolling out the correct post-fire views.
  • Reports varied by device, with Google showing intact homes on Homepark Avenue, Iliff Street, and Radcliffe Avenue for many users.
  • The timing before a Los Angeles mayoral primary drew online claims of election interference, though no outlet presented evidence beyond speculation.
  • Forum commenters said licensing or access lapses can force map services to fall back to older imagery, a gap that can mislead residents, buyers, and insurers who rely on current views.