Wildfires in Los Angeles have killed at least 25 people, displaced thousands, and destroyed over 12,000 buildings since igniting on January 7.
Strong Santa Ana winds have fuelled the flames, making it hard for firefighters to contain the blazes. The fires have burned 163 square kilometres across areas like Palisades, Eaton, Kenneth, and Hurst, with some fires only partially contained.
The Palisades Fire, along the coast, has caused eight deaths, while the Eaton Fire farther inland has been blamed for 17 more, according to officials. Nearly 30 people are still missing. Investigators are working to determine what caused the fires, which could become the costliest in U.S. history, with estimated damages of up to $490 billion.
Dry winds, reaching speeds of 80 km/h in the mountains, are making the situation worse. These Santa Ana winds, which blow warm, dry air inland, are expected to continue, keeping fire risks high. Forecasters have issued rare warnings about “particularly dangerous” conditions as the fires spread quickly in areas that have seen no significant rain for months.
So far, about 40,000 people have applied for help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which has already distributed over $14 million for food, water, and other needs. FEMA also offers up to $77,809 in individual assistance, while state grants and low-interest loans can help cover additional costs for rebuilding homes and businesses.
More than 88,000 people remain evacuated, with 84,800 others under threat of evacuation orders. Nursing homes and group homes have also been emptied for safety.
The situation remains critical as firefighters, emergency workers, and residents face ongoing challenges from one of the most destructive fire events in Los Angeles history.
