Wildfires in the Los Angeles area have claimed 11 lives and forced tens of thousands to evacuate. Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered an investigation into water shortages that hampered firefighting efforts, calling it “deeply troubling.”
The largest fires, the Palisades and Eaton blazes, are only partially contained, with firefighters racing against time to establish control lines amid dangerous conditions. Together, these fires have consumed over 36,000 acres, destroying neighbourhoods and infrastructure. Authorities are investigating potential causes, including the role of power lines during high winds. Meanwhile, reports of looting and identity theft in evacuation zones have led to 18 arrests, prompting heightened security measures.
The human toll is mounting as well. Among the victims are a man in his 60s who lived in his childhood home, an 80-year-old retired aerospace engineer, and a retired pharmacy technician whom neighbors called “an angel.” President Biden has assured federal support for recovery efforts, while FEMA has pledged resources to help displaced residents.
Los Angeles, known as the home of many Hollywood celebrities, is facing devastation from deadly wildfires that began on Tuesday in California.
The Eaton Fire near Pasadena, which broke out on Tuesday night, has already destroyed over 5,000 structures. Meanwhile, the Kenneth Fire, which started Thursday afternoon in the San Fernando Valley, is burning just two miles away from a school being used as a shelter for evacuees from another fire.
This live blog will serve as your real-time source for updates as we follow the developments of these wildfires. We’ll cover everything from the latest on fire containment, new evacuation orders, and the ongoing investigation into the water supply issues. We’ll also bring you stories of the community’s resilience, official responses, and the efforts of emergency services. Stay tuned for continuous updates on this unfolding emergency in California.
