Roaring wildfires, towering flames, and a sky choked with dark smoke have sparked panic across Los Angeles in the past four days. The wildfires have engulfed the city, with scenes of devastation everywhere. Tragically, 11 people have perished in the fires, over 10,000 homes and buildings have been reduced to ashes, and thousands of vehicles have been incinerated. Approximately 150,000 people have been evacuated to safe areas, with an equal number on standby, ready to move at a moment's notice.
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The vigorous winds are amplifying the fire's reach, with a shadow cast over this golden city. Once vibrant in the lights, the city now bears the brunt of the heat. The American film industry (Hollywood) is experiencing severe damage. Many celebrities' homes have been swallowed by the fire, forcing stars residing in posh areas like Hollywood Hills to seek refuge elsewhere.
This terrifying wildfire has engulfed more than 1,200 acres near the Pacific Palisades, between Santa Monica and Malibu. On Friday night, the fierce flames spread toward residential areas of Los Angeles, causing chaos. Firefighters urgently advised around 30,000 people to vacate the Pacific Palisades and head to safety. Meanwhile, approximately 13,000 buildings and homes were at risk of the advancing inferno.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom reports that thousands of homes and structures have already been destroyed, with fears of further destruction as the fire rapidly spreads. The National Weather Service had issued an alert from January 7 to January 9 due to the severe fire conditions across most parts of Los Angeles County. There was also a warning about winds reaching 50 to 80 miles per hour. These strong winds are posing challenges for firefighters trying to contain the raging blaze.
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So far, the cause behind these devastating wildfires remains a mystery. Spanning approximately 40,000 acres, the fire has already consumed 29,000 acres completely. Around 10,000 buildings are utterly destroyed, and damage extends to 30,000 homes. Authorities have directed nearly 300,000 people to head to safe zones. Helicopters continue aerial efforts, discharging water to extinguish the flames. The fire, which originated in the Pacific Palisades region, has reached the western hills of Los Angeles.
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In Ventura County, the fire has seized 50 acres, prompting over 60 fire brigade companies to be dispatched. Fire outbreaks have also been reported in Kenith, consuming 800 acres. Anthony Marrone, head of fire safety in Los Angeles County, dismissed reports about a water shortage hindering firefighting operations, stating, 'I have no information pointing to a water shortage in the Los Angeles County Fire Department due to these wildfires. We are coordinating closely with the PWD.' Anthony Marrone urged people to adhere to evacuation orders from officials.