Dangerous winds are set to worsen California wildfires, with the death toll now at 24 and evacuation plans urged for residents.
Los Angeles: Firefighters are gearing up for more dangerous winds that could fuel the wildfires raging around the city. Sadly, the death toll has now hit 24.
The Santa Ana winds are really making things worse, turning the fires into massive infernos. These winds, combined with the ongoing drought, have devastated neighborhoods in this huge city.
The National Weather Service has issued a serious warning about the winds expected to kick in overnight. They’re predicting sustained winds of up to 40 mph, with gusts hitting 70 mph in the mountains.
LA fire chief Kristin Crowley reminded everyone that we’re not out of the woods yet. It’s crucial to stay alert and not let our guard down.
Officials are urging residents to have evacuation plans ready. They recommend leaving as soon as evacuation warnings are issued to avoid traffic jams later on.
To help combat the flames, 70 extra water trucks have arrived. LA County fire chief Anthony C Marrone assured everyone that they’re ready for the upcoming wind event.
Hundreds of National Guard troops are also on the ground, stationed in key areas to help with the response. Mayor Karen Bass mentioned that they’re preparing for these hurricane-force winds.
So far, four fires have burned over 62 square miles, which is more than the size of San Francisco. The Eaton and Palisades fires alone have consumed a staggering 59 square miles.
As the fires rage on, the death toll has tragically risen to 24. Sixteen of those deaths were linked to the Eaton fire, while eight were from the Palisades fire. Sadly, this number may increase as search efforts continue.
Two victims have been identified: Victor Shaw, 66, who stayed behind to protect his home, and Charles Mortimer, 84, who died from smoke inhalation and burns.
More heartbreaking stories are emerging, like that of 95-year-old actress Dalyce Curry, whose remains were found in her home. Her family described her as vibrant and active, making the loss even more painful.
At least 23 people are still missing, and authorities expect that number to rise. Sheriff Robert Luna called the recovery efforts a “grim task,” with remains being found daily.
Some residents are returning to see what’s left of their homes. Jim Orlandini, who lost his hardware store, was relieved to find his house still standing after fearing the worst.
Fire crews from California and nine other states are working hard, with nearly 1,400 fire engines and over 14,000 personnel on the ground, including firefighters from Mexico.
Unfortunately, looting has become a concern, with authorities making arrests, including two people pretending to be firefighters. Governor Gavin Newsom has vowed that California will not tolerate looting.
Mayor Bass is facing a tough test of leadership during this crisis, with political blame and investigations already surfacing. She emphasized the need to focus on the immediate challenges ahead.
Newsom has ordered an investigation into why a large reservoir was out of service during this crisis. A lawsuit has also been filed against Southern California Edison, claiming their equipment sparked the deadly Eaton fire.
As of now, the official cause of the Eaton and Hurst fires remains undetermined. The situation is still developing, and everyone is hoping for the best.
