Devastating wildfires continue to burn through Los Angeles, killing at least 24 people and forcing more than 100,000 residents to be ordered for evacuation. The Eaton and Palisades fires, which have been the most destructive, have together burned almost 38,000 acres of land, each being contained, respectively, by 27% and 13%.
Firefighters were preparing for the return of Santa Ana winds, forecasted to reach as much as 70 mph and expected to heighten the challenge. Authorities also warned that hotspots could be rekindled by those conditions, further depressing containment.
In addition to battling the fire, officials are fighting rumours of looters posing as firefighters to exploit already evacuated neighborhoods. The Los Angeles Police Department warned of scams targeting the most vulnerable people and urged residents to be vigilant.
The crisis has also deepened political tensions. President-elect Donald Trump accused California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass of “gross incompetence” in handling the disaster. The governor denied these accusations, citing the efforts being made by the state, and invited the president-elect to visit the area and see the situation himself.
As the fires continue, the community has come out in full support of the victims, as shelters open their doors to evacuees and other states pitch in with firefighting equipment. The causes of the fires remain under investigation by the authorities while the damage to property and infrastructure is assessed.
Photos: Reuters
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