Author’s Note

It deeply pains me to see my hometown burn to the ground. As an LA native, and someone who has endured much suffering and crises in my life I write this with a grounded hope that such devastation will not happen again. These fires coincide with the second of three Mars-Pluto oppositions, an astrological configuration that sheds light on the attractor fields shaping collective events—not as mystical predestination, but as a sober lens through which to understand energy patterns and timing.

Astrology, as I practice it, is not horoscope-based or rooted in escapism. I do not write for those seeking distractions or easy answers. My work is dedicated to spiritual aspirants—individuals committed to growth, responsibility, and transformation. Alongside Aurelia, I engage in daily obstacle-removing practices to support the collective. This is not about superstition but about aligning action with the deeper currents of life to create meaningful change.

I remain fully aware that it is not the stars but our actions that determine outcomes. The insights astrology provides are a tool, not a crutch. The real work lies in confronting our challenges with clarity, compassion, and collective responsibility. It is up to us to take what is revealed and use it to rebuild with integrity, resilience, and purpose.

Let this serve as a call to action, not as a moment of despair. The stars guide, but humanity acts—and that is where our power truly lies.

When interpreting astrology, it is crucial to understand that we are engaging with attractor fields—cosmic patterns that influence and resonate with events, behaviors, and circumstances in the world. These fields are not deterministic but instead act as subtle yet potent influencers, creating conditions where certain outcomes are more likely to occur.

Astrological transits like the Mars-Pluto opposition are not isolated moments. Instead, they represent peaks in these attractor fields, where the energies of Mars (action, aggression, ignition) and Pluto (transformation, power, destruction) intersect. This interplay creates a charged environment, much like the swell of a wave before it breaks.

Astrological transits are not isolated events—they represent cycles of unfolding energy that gradually build toward a climax. The recent catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles, which began on January 7, 2025, align with a powerful astrological pattern: the Mars-Pluto opposition. This transit, occurring on November 3, 2024; January 3, 2025; and April 27, 2025, mirrors the escalation of systemic tensions and environmental conditions.

Mars-Pluto Opposition Dates and Themes

November 3, 2024 (29° Cancer – Capricorn)
This opposition coincided with heightened global focus on the U.S. presidential election and the re-election campaign of Donald Trump. The intensity of this period reflects Mars-Pluto dynamics—deep divides and heightened emotions, indicative of Mars’ aggression and Pluto’s power struggles.

January 3, 2025 (01° Leo – Aquarius)
Occurring just days before the LA fires began, this opposition brought the energy to a near-breaking point. Mars in fiery Leo amplified individual and collective actions, while Pluto in Aquarius highlighted systemic pressures and societal reform. The combination provided for the combustive energy that would manifest shortly thereafter.

April 27, 2025 (03° Leo – Aquarius)
This final opposition in the series signifies the culmination of transformative energies. Mars’ persistence in Leo and Pluto’s presence in Aquarius suggest ongoing tensions, calling for societal introspection and systemic rebuilding after the fires’ destruction.

While the exact dates of transits mark the strongest alignment of these planetary bodies, the effects of these fields ripple across time. Days before and after, we feel the influence as the wave builds and subsides. This explains why events tied to a transit, such as the LA fires, can unfold in a way that feels aligned with, but not strictly confined to, the Gregorian calendar dates of the transit.

Astrology, then, does not dictate events. Instead, it illuminates the underlying cosmic currents that attract and shape the circumstances around us. By tuning into these attractor fields, we gain insight into the prevailing themes and potentialities, allowing us to navigate these energies with greater awareness and intention.

This transit of the Mars and Pluto firewave symbolizes not just destruction but the potential for transformation—a cycle of endings and new beginnings that is central to both astrology and the human experience. (Arik Xander, 2024)

Astrological Overview: Mars Opposing Pluto

Mars, the planet of action, aggression, and fire, stands in opposition to Pluto, the ruler of transformation, destruction, and regeneration. This alignment unleashes collective judgment and sets the stage for a volatile dynamic, symbolizing a clash between assertive forces and deeper systemic power. Over the course of these three oppositions, this energy has built—and continues to build—to a breaking point. It mirrors the escalating environmental and infrastructural challenges leading up to the fires.

Notably, the 2025 oppositions occur in signs with fiery and transformative energies. Aquarius, an air sign, blew the fire beyond what is normally possible, enforcing radical change. Leo, a fire sign, made sure that it was seen by the entire world. The opposition between these energies not only fuels literal fires but also spreads metaphorical flames through society, igniting systemic tensions and driving collective transformation.

Mars and Pluto: Fire and Destruction with Distinct Roles

Mars is the igniter—acting impulsively, triggering immediate reactions, and representing the spark that sets events into motion. Pluto, by contrast, governs the hidden and systemic forces, driving crises to catalyze profound transformation. Together, they form a combustible mix, manifesting as literal and symbolic firestorms that tear down outdated structures, paving the way for renewal. Yet this fiery energy, while potent, can be harnessed and directed; it is an attractor field that people, systems, or circumstances might consciously or unconsciously pick up and run with. We still don’t know the cause of these fires, but it is either arson or Mother Nature.

This dynamic becomes even more pronounced during Capricorn season, a time imbued with the weight of judgment and accountability. Capricorn’s stern and discerning energy aligns with the heavens' call for reckoning. But it is vital to remember that while judgment is “in the stars,” it is only activated through human actions. This is why spiritual practices, like praying for the silencing of judgment, are essential during such intense astrological transits. However, the only way to withhold the manifestation of judgment is by withholding casting judgement. By cultivating mindfulness and compassion, we can influence how these energies manifest.

How to Respond: Presence, Refuge, and Responsibility

In the face of crises, the first step is to be present with your shock. This means prioritizing safety—physical, emotional, and spiritual. Taking refuge allows you to center yourself and process the overwhelming energy that crises like the fires bring.

It is also essential to remember that such events are part of God’s Divine Plan. This perspective does not absolve us of responsibility but instead reminds us of the karmic forces at play. God does not intervene to "fix" things for us. Instead, we are invited to step into maturity, recognizing that these situations call upon us to take responsibility for our actions and their consequences. It’s a metaphor for life.

This responsibility extends beyond the self. When others are unable to shoulder their burdens, it is our duty to help. Such crises force us to come together as a community, united in compassion and action. Whether it means providing tangible aid, emotional support, or spiritual grounding, this collective effort is how we align with the higher purpose of transformative events.

Through presence, prayer, and compassionate action, we can navigate the fiery energy of Mars and Pluto, using it not for destruction alone but as a means of forging deeper connections and renewed purpose.

The Transformative Power of Fire

While tragic, fire carries profound symbolic meaning as a force of transformation. In Tibetan Buddhism, fire is deeply symbolic, representing purification, transformation, and the burning away of negative karma. Fire ceremonies, such as the Ritual Fire Puja, offer a profound example of this transformative power. During these rituals, sacred substances are offered to the flames as a way of purifying obstacles, appeasing wrathful energies, and creating space for renewal and positive outcomes.

In the context of the Mars-Pluto opposition and the LA fires, the flames may symbolize the painful but necessary clearing of unsustainable systems. Like a fire puja, this tragedy might be a moment of reckoning, where humanity could be called to release what no longer serves and possibly rebuild with greater intention and harmony.

Fire is a reminder of impermanence and the karmic cycles that bind us. Offering into the fire symbolizes letting go of attachments, fears, and judgments—aligning with Pluto’s transformative call to release what no longer serves us. The Mars-Pluto opposition, particularly during Capricorn season, may mirror this theme of karmic reckoning. Capricorn’s energy of accountability and judgment could be reflected in the focus on acknowledging one’s karma while seeking purification.

The Fires in LA: Astrological and Factual Connections

The LA fires began on January 7, 2025, exacerbated by extreme drought, low humidity, and hurricane-force Santa Ana winds. By January 10, the fires had killed 10 people, displaced 180,000, and destroyed over 10,300 structures, with the Palisades Fire, Hurst Fire, and Eaton Fire causing the most damage​​. The buildup to these fires mirrors the themes of Mars-Pluto tension: a growing imbalance between human systems and nature, amplified by environmental mismanagement and infrastructural weaknesses.

Water Supply Challenges

While the LA water supply systems remained functional, they were not designed for wildfire emergencies of this magnitude. Hydrants in areas like Pacific Palisades were overwhelmed, running dry at critical moments. This reflects Pluto's transformative purge of outdated systems and Mars’ aggressive exposure of vulnerabilities. (LAist, 2025) (Reuters, 2025)

Additionally, California’s ongoing drought had further strained resources, despite proactive measures introduced by the state to adapt to changing conditions (Governor’s Office of California, 2024) (National Geographic, 2024).

A Symbol of Mars-Pluto Fire Energy

The fires are a stark embodiment of Mars and Pluto’s destructive energy, with Mars acting as the immediate catalyst (ignition) and Pluto governing the deeper forces at play (systemic weaknesses). Drought conditions, exacerbated by years of mismanagement, provided the perfect kindling for Mars’ fiery aggression (National Geographic, 2024).

Lessons and Rebirth Through Fire

Astrology views fire as both a destroyer and a purifying force. While the Mars-Pluto oppositions reflect chaos and destruction, they also symbolize the potential for renewal. The LA fires may reveal the need for a balance between innovation and sustainability, urging us to rebuild systems that prioritize harmony with nature.

As the fires subside, Mars and Pluto leave behind a stark lesson: transformation often comes through confrontation with our deepest vulnerabilities. Whether through astrological insight or practical action, the focus must be on sustainable growth and resilience, ensuring that this cycle of destruction gives way to meaningful rebirth.

References

1. Arik Xander. “2025 Astrological Forecast: Mars in 2025: Energy & Action” December 26, 2024.
   https://www.arikxander.com/2025/mars-in-2025-navigating-energy-action-and-transformation-across-the-zodiac

2. LAist. “Why Did Pacific Palisades Water Hydrants Run Dry?” January 9, 2025. https://laist.com/news/climate-environment/why-did-pacific-palisades-water-hydrants-run-dry.

3. Reuters. “Los Angeles Water Runs Short as Wildfires Burn Out of Control.” January 9, 2025. https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/los-angeles-water-runs-short-wildfires-burn-out-control-2025-01-09/.

4. Governor’s Office of California. “Governor Newsom Adapts State’s Drought Response to Changing Conditions.” September 4, 2024. https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/09/04/governor-newsom-adapts-states-drought-response-to-changing-conditions-continues-action-to-support-recovery-and-build-resilience.

5. National Geographic. “Los Angeles Wildfires and Water Scarcity.” September 2024.https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/los-angeles-wildfires-water-scarcity.