Firefighters in Los Angeles are making progress against wildfires, notably the Palisades Fire, which has caused at least 14 deaths and left 16 missing. Governor Gavin Newsom warns of potentially higher casualties and reports significant destruction in affluent neighborhoods, with around 12,000 structures impacted. Evacuations affect 153,000 residents, as strong winds threaten to worsen conditions. Amid criticism from President-elect Trump regarding state management, local leaders invite him to observe the devastation firsthand.
Firefighters Make Headway Against Wildfires in Los Angeles
On Sunday, firefighters in Los Angeles reported progress in their ongoing battle against the wildfires that have been devastating the region. However, new fires are emerging, posing a significant threat to the densely populated San Fernando Valley, located northwest of the bustling California metropolis.
The wildfires, primarily originating from the ‘Palisades Fire,’ represent the most active of six fires that have been raging around the second-largest city in the United States since Tuesday. The latest reports from LA County Sheriff Robert Luna indicate that these fires have resulted in at least 14 fatalities and left 16 individuals unaccounted for.
Governor’s Concerns and Impact on Communities
California Governor Gavin Newsom has expressed concerns that the toll could be even greater. “We have deployed search and rescue teams along with trained dogs to locate victims, and we anticipate discovering many more,” he shared during an NBC interview.
These wildfires have wreaked havoc on upscale neighborhoods and celebrity residences, marking one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history in terms of financial impact, according to the Democratic governor. In total, around 12,000 structures—including homes, businesses, and vehicles—have either been destroyed or damaged by the flames.
Originating from Pacific Palisades, situated between Santa Monica and Malibu, the Palisades Fire has burned over 8,800 hectares and is currently 11% contained. In the past 24 hours alone, approximately 400 hectares have been consumed, with the fire spreading in the direction of affluent areas like Brentwood and the San Fernando Valley.
Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire, to the east of Los Angeles, has devastated over 5,000 hectares.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings regarding strong winds, which are expected to exacerbate the fire conditions. Although the intense Santa Ana winds had weakened on Saturday, forecasts predict gusts could reach up to 70 km/h early in the week. Red alerts for Los Angeles and Ventura counties will remain in effect until Wednesday.
Currently, about 153,000 residents in the Los Angeles area are under evacuation orders, with an additional 166,000 individuals advised that they may need to evacuate as well. Some residents were permitted to return to their homes on Saturday to assess the damage to their belongings.
President-elect Donald Trump has criticized California’s handling of the wildfires, stating on his Truth Social network, “Incompetent politicians have no idea how to put out these fires. Thousands of beautiful homes have disappeared, and many more will soon be lost.” He expressed concern over the situation, questioning the effectiveness of local leadership.
In response to Trump’s remarks, both Governor Newsom and Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger invited him to witness the extent of the destruction firsthand.