Devastating wildfires continue to ravage Southern California, claiming at least 16 lives and leaving multiple people unaccounted for as firefighters battle against severe drought conditions and fierce Santa Ana winds.
Three major fires are currently burning across Los Angeles County, spanning approximately 45 square miles of densely populated areas. The largest blaze, the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades, has consumed nearly 24,000 acres and destroyed thousands of buildings. Fire crews have only managed to achieve 11% containment of this massive inferno.
The Eaton Fire in Altadena has burned through more than 14,100 acres and stands at 27% containment. Meanwhile, the Hurst Fire near Sylmar has charred 799 acres but is largely under control at 89% containment.
Emergency officials have issued mandatory evacuation orders affecting approximately 105,000 residents, while an additional 87,000 people remain under evacuation warnings. The fires erupted during a powerful windstorm that continues to challenge containment efforts.
In Mandeville Canyon, the Palisades Fire has already claimed at least one structure, though firefighters have recently made progress in controlling its spread. The combination of ongoing drought conditions and strong winds continues to pose serious challenges for fire crews working to protect lives and property.
The red flag warning, indicating extreme fire danger, remains active through Wednesday as weather conditions continue to favor fire spread across the region.
Emergency response teams are working around the clock to protect communities and contain these devastating blazes as Southern California faces one of its most challenging fire seasons on record.