Wildfires in Los Angeles have caused devastation, displacing thousands and claiming lives. Here’s what you should know about the situation.
Los Angeles: The wildfires raging through the area have been catastrophic. At least 24 people have lost their lives, and thousands have been forced to evacuate. Over 12,000 structures have been destroyed, and the fires have spread across a region larger than San Francisco.
These fires kicked off last Tuesday, driven by strong Santa Ana winds. Cal Fire reported that the Palisades, Eaton, Kenneth, and Hurst fires have burned about 62 square miles. The Palisades Fire alone has been linked to eight deaths, while the Eaton Fire has claimed 16 lives. Sadly, at least 16 people are still missing.
Investigators are still trying to figure out what started these fires. They could end up being the most expensive in U.S. history, with damage estimates ranging from $250 billion to $275 billion, according to AccuWeather.
Forecasters have issued warnings about a “particularly dangerous situation” due to severe fire conditions. Winds could reach up to 40 mph, with gusts hitting 65 mph in the mountains. The most dangerous day is expected to be Tuesday.
As the flames have threatened populated neighborhoods like Pacific Palisades and Altadena, about 150,000 people are under evacuation orders. Many are seeking refuge in shelters, and officials say these orders likely won’t be lifted until the winds die down.
Power outages are affecting around 50,000 customers, with many in Los Angeles County. The infrastructure for water and power has taken a significant hit, leaving thousands without essential services.
While the fires have destroyed celebrity homes, they’ve also impacted affordable communities, including places of worship. Investigators are looking into the cause, ruling out lightning as a factor.
Several events have been postponed, including the Critics Choice Awards and NFL games. Public officials are facing scrutiny over their response, with calls for accountability regarding the city’s preparedness and resources.
