Los Angeles, Jan 12, (V7N) - Los Angeles is facing severe wildfire conditions, with gusty winds exacerbating the situation. The fires have already killed at least 11 people, with more than 153,000 residents under evacuation orders and an additional 166,000 on alert. Over 57,000 structures are at risk, and more than 38,000 acres of land have been consumed by the flames.
 
The Palisades Fire, which started on January 7, has burned more than 21,000 acres and is the most destructive in Los Angeles history. It is only 11% contained as of Saturday morning. A total of 5,000 structures have been damaged, including 426 homes. Another fire, the Eaton Fire, has burned 14,117 acres, affecting Altadena and Pasadena. Over 7,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed by both fires.
 
Fire Chief Anthony Marrone stated that the dry conditions and strong winds continue to pose a high risk to Los Angeles County. As fires continue to spread, new evacuation orders have been issued for areas near Encino, Brentwood, and the Getty Center.
 
Meanwhile, a sixth fire, the Archer Fire, broke out on Friday, adding to the growing crisis. Crews are struggling to control the blazes, as unpredictable winds make it difficult to determine fire movement.
 
As of Saturday morning, over 145,000 homes and businesses across California are without power. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced an investigation into water supply issues that may have hindered firefighting efforts.
 
Evacuations have also affected vulnerable populations, including around 120 veterans from the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center, who were relocated as a precaution.
 
For those who evacuated, uncertainty remains. Richard and Cathryn Conn, who fled Pacific Palisades, are unsure if their home survived the fires. “You can visualize every room, and then you know there’s a 50 percent chance it doesn’t exist anymore,” Richard Conn said.
 
As wildfires become more frequent in California’s hotter, drier conditions, experts stress the importance of creating defensible spaces around homes. Simple actions such as removing flammable materials, trimming trees, and using fire-resistant materials for homes can improve fire safety.
 
The fires continue to rage across Los Angeles, with the situation expected to remain dangerous as winds continue into next week.
 
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