Los Angeles, Jan 10, (V7N) - Multiple wildfires, intensified by strong Santa Ana winds, have scorched nearly 30,000 acres near Los Angeles. These winds, most common in the fall and winter, push dry air from California's inland deserts and the Southwest toward the coast, according to the National Weather Service.

The fires, burning across five separate locations, have created massive flames and dangerous smoke. As a result, over 100,000 residents have been forced to evacuate, and at least five people have died. Fire officials report that more than 1,000 homes have been destroyed, with containment at zero in many areas, according to Cal Fire.

Satellite and aerial imagery highlight the extensive destruction in Los Angeles County, revealing the fast-moving fires' impact on the densely populated region.

Destruction in Altadena, California

The Eaton Fire, which has devastated parts of Altadena, California, northeast of Pasadena, is among the worst-hit areas. On January 8, Maxar Technologies' shortwave infrared sensor captured images through the dense smoke of the fire. The sensor can locate the fire's flame front and hot spots beneath the smoke.

In Altadena, houses and businesses have been reduced to rubble, with significant damage along Marathon Road and East Altadena Drive. A Bank of America branch and an Ezzz Stop Food Stores location on Lake Avenue were among the nearly 2,000 structures destroyed since the fires began on Tuesday.

Fire Impact in Malibu

On the coast, burning houses along Pacific Coast Highway near Topanga Beach in Malibu were also captured in the January 8 imagery, showing the destruction spreading across the area.

Weather Forecast and Ongoing Risks

While the intensity of the Santa Ana winds has subsided since Tuesday and Wednesday, new concerns have emerged. The National Weather Service predicts gusts of 30 to 50 mph in typical Santa Ana wind areas on Thursday. By Thursday night and Friday, gusts could increase to 40 to 55 mph, with isolated gusts reaching 70 mph in some foothills and peaks.

Voice7 News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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