Devastating Wildfires in Los Angeles Kill 24

January 14, 2025
Devastating Wildfires in Los Angeles Kill 24

Wildfires across the Los Angeles area have caused massive destruction, killing at least 24 people and destroying thousands of buildings, officials reported on Sunday.

The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner shared that 24 people have died due to the fires, with investigations ongoing. Of these, 10 deaths have been confirmed as human remains.

Firefighters continued their battle against the deadly flames on Sunday as strong winds threatened more Southern California communities. Aircraft dropped water and fire retardant on areas burned by the Palisades Fire, which has become Los Angeles’ most destructive wildfire, destroying over 23,000 acres, homes, businesses, and landmarks.

The fire, which is only 13% contained, spread further north and east, leading to evacuation orders near the 405 freeway as parts of Encino and Brentwood faced danger.

Officials noted some progress but warned that increasing winds could worsen the situation. The Santa Ana winds, which have fueled the fires for a week, picked up again on Sunday in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. They were expected to ease briefly before strengthening again from Sunday night to Wednesday, with the worst conditions predicted for Tuesday.

Meteorologist Rich Thompson from the National Weather Service said wind gusts could reach 35 to 55 mph. A red flag warning is in place until Wednesday due to strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation, which create highly dangerous fire conditions.

Nancy Ward, head of California’s Office of Emergency Services, stressed the ongoing danger during a Sunday news conference. She explained that more fire engines, crews, helicopters, and bulldozers have been deployed across Southern California to handle the increased fire threat.

The Palisades Fire is just one of six fires that have broken out since Tuesday, devastating neighborhoods and leaving a trail of destruction. Three of these fires were still active as of Sunday.

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