Thousands of residents are being forced to flee as multiple wildfires burn across Los Angeles County. Firefighters continue to battle the fires, which have intensified due to strong winds and drier conditions.
So far, more than 28,000 homes and businesses are in the direct path of the fires, with evacuation orders affecting over 70,000 people. Los Angeles Fire Chief Anthony Marrone stated the Santa Ana winds are pushing the flames across the region.
“The fire is growing, we have no percentage of containment,” the chief said in an update on Wednesday, Jan. 8.
At least three separate fires are currently burning across the county, stretching several miles from the Pacific coastline to Pasadena.
The most significant is the Palisades Fire, located to the west of the city. The fire has already scorched more than 5,000 acres.
“We have an estimated 1,000 structures destroyed,” Marrone said.
In addition to the Palisades Fire, crews are working to control the Hurst Fire in the northwestern part of the county. The Eaton Fire to the northeast is also spreading rapidly, driven by winds reaching up to 100 mph.
Amid the thick smoke, authorities discovered the bodies of two individuals, though it is not yet confirmed if their deaths were directly linked to the fires. Officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department is urging residents to prioritize safety. The department has seen a high number of injuries from individuals who ignored evacuation orders.
The fire chief also said emergency workers have also sustained injuries while battling the wildfires on the frontlines.
“The National Weather Service has predicted a continued red flag weather event with strong winds and low humidity placing all residents of Los Angeles County in danger,” Marrone added.
Due to the extreme weather conditions, more than 300,000 people across California have been without power. While the exact cause of the wildfires remains under investigation, officials are working tirelessly to contain the spread of the flames and prevent further destruction.