In Los Angeles, wildfires have become even more destructive with the aid of high winds. Officials reported on Sunday that at least 16 people have died and over 12,000 buildings have been reduced to ashes. Firefighters battle to control the blaze, hindered by the relentless winds. Authorities warn that strong winds are expected tonight and into the first few days of the week, heightening the threat of further spread.
The wildfires have spread across four areas of Los Angeles County, unleashing devastation. Pacific Palisades is among the hardest hit, with flames consuming over 1,000 extra acres, leading to massive destruction and evacuations. The towns of Eaton and others are also under siege. Over 100,000 residents have been displaced from their homes in Los Angeles County.
Top 10 Updates on the Los Angeles Wildfires
1.
California’s fire official, Todd Hopkins, reports that the Palisades fire has spread over 22,000 acres, destroying 426 homes and more than 5,000 structures.
2.
A bewildering video of a fire tornado in the Palisades area has gone viral. A vortex of flames rises skywards, a terrifying phenomenon known as 'fire whirls' or 'fire devils'. Firenadoes form when hot air and gases from a fire create a spinning column, lifting smoke, debris, and flames aloft.
Source: aajtak
Read More: The Blaze Continues in Los Angeles Forests: 11 Dead, See US Top-10
3.
Officials state that 11% of the fire in Palisades is under control, but the rugged terrain and erratic winds pose significant challenges for firefighting teams. David Ortiz of the Los Angeles Fire Department described the fire as a 'multi-headed monster' in an interview with NBC News.
4.
In addition to 16 confirmed deaths, 13 individuals remain unaccounted for, as reported by the Los Angeles County Police Department. Search and rescue operations are underway with the aid of dog squads to find and assist victims, as well as recover any bodies.
5.
The blaze has advanced close to Mandeville Canyon, with threats looming over San Fernando Valley and the upscale neighborhood of Brentwood, home to celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger. Flames are nearing the arterial 405 Freeway.
Source: aajtak
Read More: Los Angeles Shrouded in Smoke: Thousands Flee, Fire Hard to Control
6.
Fire Chief Anthony Marrone of Los Angeles County warns that strong winds are predicted to return later this week. The combination of dry vegetation and fierce winds continues to escalate the fire threat in Los Angeles County.
7.
Over 153,000 residents have been evacuated from their neighborhoods in Los Angeles, heading to safer locations. Approximately 57,000 structures are presently at imminent risk, with another 166,000 residents on standby for evacuation.
Source: aajtak
8.
The wildfires ignited on January 7 and remain uncontrolled after a week, covering approximately 39,000 acres, an area larger than San Francisco City. Residents in the affected area face significant property damage, with initial estimates indicating losses between $135 billion and $150 billion, potentially the most devastating wildfire in U.S. history.
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9.
President Joe Biden has declared the wildfire a disaster, pledging aid through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for victims affected by this catastrophe. Authorities briefed him on the situation in Los Angeles and other areas on Saturday. Biden coordinated federal assistance with state and local authorities.
Source: aajtak
10.
Meanwhile, neighboring states, along with Canada and Mexico, have dispatched fire crews and equipment to aid California. Aerial teams from the fire department continue to combat the blaze, using helicopters and air tankers to disperse water and fire retardant chemicals over the affected forests.
