California, Jan 10, (V7N) - Wildfires continue to wreak havoc across Los Angeles County, forcing mass evacuations and leaving devastation in their wake. Fueled by historic winds and extensive drought, the blazes have created apocalyptic conditions, prompting a massive response from firefighters, law enforcement, and government officials.
 
 
As of Thursday, at least five major wildfires were active in the region, consuming over 40 square miles, according to Cal Fire. The Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire are among the largest, with 0% containment.
 
The Palisades Fire has spread across 27 square miles, destroying 300 structures and threatening over 13,000 more in the Pacific Palisades community. Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire, burning near Pasadena in the San Gabriel Mountains, spans more than 16 square miles and is under investigation.
 
Other fires include the Hurst Fire, which has burned 671 acres and is 10% contained, and the Sunset Fire, initially threatening Hollywood Hills but now contained within a 60-acre perimeter, leading to lifted evacuation orders. Preliminary reports estimate thousands of structures have been damaged or destroyed, with total economic losses nearing $10 billion.
 
Nearly 180,000 people have been ordered to evacuate, and another 200,000 face evacuation warnings. Tragically, at least five deaths have been confirmed, with officials expecting the toll to rise. One victim was found attempting to save their home with a garden hose. Reports of looting in evacuated areas have led to 20 arrests, with Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna condemning the actions, stating, "If you are in one of these areas where you do not belong, you are going to be arrested."
 
Over 548,000 customers are without electricity, with major disruptions reported by Southern California Edison and the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power. Firefighters are struggling with depleted water supplies, and efforts to use ocean water are constrained due to potential environmental damage and equipment corrosion. Residents in affected areas have been advised to use bottled or boiled water due to contamination risks.
 
The fires have further deteriorated Los Angeles' already poor air quality. Smoke and ash have created hazardous conditions, with advisories extending across the region. Officials warn that air quality may not improve until the fires are fully extinguished.
 
President Joe Biden has authorized the federal government to cover wildfire response costs for 180 days, including debris removal, shelter, and first responders’ salaries. The Pentagon has deployed C-130 aircraft and helicopters equipped for aerial firefighting, as well as ground teams to assist with law enforcement and emergency services.
 
California Governor Gavin Newsom praised the heroic efforts of more than 1,400 firefighters and first responders deployed to battle the blazes.
 
Amid the chaos, stories of resilience and courage have emerged. Nurse Christianna Gutierrez rushed to aid evacuees at the Pasadena Convention Center, treating respiratory issues and wounds. Additionally, homes of stars like Billy Crystal and Paris Hilton were destroyed, leaving them "heartbroken beyond words."
 
As Santa Ana winds continue to fan the flames, officials urge residents to follow evacuation orders and stay alert for updates. The firefighting efforts remain "all hands on deck," with the priority of saving lives and preventing further destruction.
 
END/SMA/AJ/