The death toll from Los Angeles’ devastating wildfires climbed to 24 on Sunday as officials warned of new dangers from fierce winds forecast through midweek.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner attributed 16 deaths to the Eaton Fire near Pasadena and eight to the Palisades Fire along the Pacific coast. Sixteen people remain missing, with authorities expecting that number to rise as search efforts continue.
The National Weather Service predicts severe fire conditions from Monday night through Wednesday, with sustained winds reaching 40 mph and gusts up to 65 mph in mountain areas. Fire behaviour analyst Dennis Burns identified Tuesday as potentially the most hazardous day.
The fires have consumed over 62 square miles, an area exceeding San Francisco’s size. Despite weekend progress in containment efforts, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone emphasized ongoing dangers from active fires, unstable structures and toxic ash.
About 150,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, with more than 700 in shelters. Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley said Palisades area evacuation orders will likely continue until at least Wednesday evening.
Nearly 14,000 firefighters, including crews from nine states and Mexico, are battling the blazes. The force includes 950 inmate firefighters from California’s prison system, who earn as little as $10.24 daily.
Early damage estimates reach $150 billion, potentially making these fires the costliest in U.S. history. President Biden’s disaster declaration has enabled more than 24,000 people to register for federal assistance.
Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order expediting rebuilding efforts and deployed National Guard troops to prevent looting, following reports of thieves posing as firefighters to access homes.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass faces mounting criticism over the city’s preparedness, amid investigations into resource shortages and reports of dry fire hydrants.