High winds are
expected to fan the fires further
The death toll from the wildfires in the Los Angeles area
continues to rise as officials warn that the fires are likely to get worse in the
coming days. Firefighters across California are working around the clock to
control the flames, but weather conditions are making their job more difficult.
The fires in Palisades and Eaton have caused massive
destruction in Southern California. Strong winds are expected to return soon,
which could spread the flames further. Some of the fires are still less than
30% contained. The fires have destroyed local communities, damaged landmarks,
and burned down many expensive homes, including those owned by celebrities like
Paris Hilton and Leighton Meester.
The National Weather Service has issued a warning about
strong winds, which could reach 30 to 50 miles per hour in coastal areas and up
to 70 miles per hour in mountainous regions of Los Angeles and Ventura
counties.
As of January 13, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed 24 deaths related to the wildfires. Of these, eight people were found in the Palisades fire zone, while 16 were from the Eaton fire zone.
The fires started less than a week ago but have already
burned through about 40,000 acres. More than 10,000 buildings have been
damaged, and around 150,000 people are still under evacuation warnings.
According to Cal Fire, the containment levels for the fires
are as follows: the Palisades fire is 13% contained, the Eaton fire is 27%
contained, and the Hurst fire is 89% contained. The total area burned by the
fires is now larger than the city of Paris, France.
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone emphasized the
need to stay prepared as strong winds are expected to last for three more days.
He stated, "We are prepared for the upcoming wind event."
The focus remains on containing the fires, keeping people
safe, and supporting communities affected by the destruction. California is
facing one of its toughest wildfire seasons in recent history.
