LA fire conditions worsen; death toll rises expected. Fires continue despite progress, high winds pose threat to containment.
Crews in Los Angeles are facing worsening fire conditions as the death toll from the ongoing fires is expected to rise.
While firefighters have made progress against the largest blaze, resurgent winds threaten to exacerbate the situation.
Governor Gavin Newsom indicated that these fires could represent the worst natural disaster in U.S. history, with search and rescue teams actively deployed. Necropsy efforts are underway, anticipating a higher death count.
Despite some success with aerial firefighting efforts, multiple large fires are still burning across the city, with the Eaton fire now covering more than 14,000 acres and only 27% contained.
In the Pacific Palisades, a fire has devastated land, growing over 1,000 acres overnight, and is currently 11% contained. It poses a significant threat to homes and has already impacted the Brentwood area.
Current weather conditions have provided some relief, but strong Santa Ana winds are expected to return, possibly reaching speeds of 50 miles per hour. Emergency services remain on alert for these gusts that could spread embers to untouched areas.
The National Weather Service has issued critical red-flag warnings across Los Angeles and surrounding counties due to high winds and low humidity, which will persist for several days.
Officials report that the fires, which began early this week, have damaged or destroyed over 12,300 properties, further highlighting the gravity of the situation.
