The death toll from the wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles has risen to 24, with officials bracing for worsening conditions as powerful winds threaten to spread the blazes further. The fires have raged for six days, leaving entire communities in ruins and forcing thousands of residents from their homes.
Firefighters have made significant progress in containing the Palisades Fire, which had been threatening upscale Brentwood and the San Fernando Valley. However, experts are warning that the situation could deteriorate rapidly, with gusts of up to 110 km/h expected to fan the flames. The National Weather Service has declared a “particularly dangerous situation” from tomorrow, as these winds may stir up embers, igniting new fire zones.
Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone confirmed that additional resources, including new water trucks and firefighters from other regions, have been deployed to handle the renewed threat. Despite this, Mayor Karen Bass reassured the public that the city’s hydrants would remain operational, unlike during the initial outbreak when water shortages were reported.
As the fires continue to ravage parts of the city, many evacuees are growing frustrated. They were informed that they would not be allowed to return to their homes until at least Thursday, when the winds are expected to subside. Some residents have been waiting in long queues to retrieve essential items, such as medication and clothes, from their homes.
Sheriff Robert Luna announced that searches for bodies are underway, with teams using cadaver dogs to sift through the wreckage. He warned that the death toll could rise further. Meanwhile, several looters have been arrested, including one individual dressed as a firefighter in an attempt to steal from homes.
The Palisades Fire has now consumed 23,700 acres, with only 11% of its perimeter contained. The Eaton Fire in Altadena, which spans 14,000 acres, is 27% contained. Despite these efforts, officials remain on high alert as the fires continue to devastate the region.
Over 100,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, down from nearly 180,000. As the search for temporary housing intensifies, reports of price gouging have surfaced, with landlords taking advantage of the crisis.
Governor Gavin Newsom has pledged that the city will rebuild, drawing comparisons to the “Marshall Plan” that helped Europe recover after World War II. In contrast, President-elect Donald Trump criticized California officials, calling the wildfires one of the “worst catastrophes” in U.S. history.
Firefighting efforts have been bolstered by crews from across California, the western U.S., and even Mexico, with Ukraine offering to send personnel to assist in the operation.
Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the wildfires, which are often intensified by urban sprawl and the effects of climate change.
