By Rory Carroll
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – The NFL is making arrangements to proceed with the Vikings-Rams playoff game in Los Angeles on Monday, despite the ongoing wildfires in the area. However, the league is prepared to relocate the game to Glendale, Arizona if necessary.
On Wednesday, fierce wildfires enveloped Los Angeles, claiming at least five lives, destroying hundreds of residences, and straining firefighting resources and water supplies as over 100,000 individuals were ordered to evacuate.
“The safety of the Los Angeles community is the NFL’s priority,” the league stated.
“We will keep a close watch on the situation and stay in touch with local authorities, both clubs, and the NFL Players Association.”
The Rams were scheduled for a day off on Wednesday as they prepared for Monday night’s match against Minnesota at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
State Farm Stadium in Glendale serves as the home field for the Arizona Cardinals.
The playoff-bound Los Angeles Chargers, who are set to face the Texans in Houston on Saturday, limited their players’ outdoor practice time on Wednesday to reduce exposure to smoke, as reported by ESPN.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the fires,” posted Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp on social media.
“We appreciate the efforts of the firefighters, first responders, and all those working tirelessly in these unimaginable conditions.”
Earlier that day, the NHL announced the postponement of the Los Angeles Kings’ Wednesday home game against the Calgary Flames due to the fires.
“The entire NHL family stands with the Kings, hockey fans, and the residents of the Los Angeles area during this challenging time,” said the NHL in a statement.
Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick revealed on Tuesday that some of his family members had to evacuate their home in the fire-affected Pacific Palisades neighborhood.
“I want to express my thoughts and prayers to everyone in the Palisades right now,” Redick remarked before the Lakers’ 118-97 loss to the Mavericks in Dallas.
After the game, the Lakers returned to LA, did not hold practice on Wednesday, and are set to host the Charlotte Hornets at Crypto.com Arena, the same location where the Kings play, on Thursday night.
Strong winds hampered firefighting efforts and intensified the flames, which have continued to rage since they ignited on Tuesday.
According to state officials, five separate fires are burning in Los Angeles County, all at 0% containment.
