The death toll from the massive wildfires in Los Angeles has climbed to 24, as officials warn of high winds expected to worsen the crisis.
The fires, now in their sixth day, have destroyed entire communities and left thousands of residents homeless.
The Palisades Fire, which has burned 23,700 acres, continues to threaten areas like Brentwood and the San Fernando Valley. Firefighters have managed to slow its spread, but extreme winds reaching up to 70 miles per hour are expected from Tuesday, creating “life-threatening conditions,” according to meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld.
Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone said additional resources, including new water trucks and firefighters, have been deployed to prepare for the worsening conditions. However, frustrations are growing among evacuees unable to return home.
Bobby Salman, a resident of Altadena, voiced his concerns: “I have to be there to protect my family, my wife, my kids, my mom, and I cannot even go and see them.”
Efforts to recover bodies have intensified, with cadaver dogs searching the wreckage. Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed the search for victims would continue, but dangerous conditions have forced authorities to suspend escorts for evacuees.
The fires have led to nighttime curfews in affected areas, and several arrests have been made, including a looter disguised as a firefighter. Governor Gavin Newsom has promised a “Marshall Plan” to rebuild the city and address housing challenges for the thousands displaced.
President Donald Trump criticized California’s fire management, calling the situation one of the worst catastrophes in U.S. history. In response, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky offered to send 150 personnel to assist.
As investigations into the fires’ causes continue, climate experts highlight the role of changing weather patterns and urban development in making such disasters more destructive.
