As the devastating California wildfires persist into their fifth day, the confirmed death toll has tragically climbed to 11, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. However, with cadaver dogs actively searching the ravaged areas, officials anticipate this number to increase. The affected zone, exceeding the size of San Francisco, paints a grim picture of the widespread destruction.
Sheriff Robert Luna reported 11 individuals missing, although the connection to the fires remains unclear. The situation continues to be volatile, with the Palisades Fire expanding to over 21,500 acres and only 11% contained. The Eaton Fire also grew, reaching over 14,100 acres with 15% containment. The fires have decimated thousands of structures, including homes, businesses, and vehicles, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake. New evacuations were ordered in Mandeville Canyon and near the I-405 freeway due to a flare-up in the Palisades Fire.
While the fierce Santa Ana winds have subsided slightly, offering temporary relief, Fire Weather Watches are in effect for Saturday evening and Sunday as stronger winds are predicted to return, maintaining the high fire risk. Fire Chief Anthony Marrone emphasized the ongoing threat posed by the winds in the coming days.
Sheriff Luna likened the disaster to an atomic bomb blast, yet expressed confidence in the community's resilience. Around 153,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, with an additional 166,000 under warnings. Looting has emerged as a concerning issue, with District Attorney Nathan Hochman issuing stern warnings against such criminal activity. Numerous arrests have been made in the affected areas, primarily targeting individuals unlawfully present.
Private security firms are overwhelmed by the surge in demand for protection against both fires and looters. Curfews are in place in mandatory evacuation zones, with penalties for violations. Firefighters continue their relentless battle against the blaze, utilizing helicopters and aircraft to combat the flames. However, the winds create hazardous conditions for flight crews operating at low altitudes over challenging terrain.
AccuWeather estimates the economic damage to be between $135 and $150 billion. Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed the National Guard to assist law enforcement, bringing the total personnel to 8,000. Hundreds of Guardsmen are providing support, with additional military personnel on standby. The ATF is leading the investigation into the cause of the wildfires, which remains undetermined. A company specializing in electrical activity monitoring reported a surge in power grid faults in the areas where the fires ignited, although a direct causal link has not been confirmed.
Some residents have returned to their devastated neighborhoods to assess the damage, while the threat of new fires looms large. The fires have impacted individuals from all walks of life, destroying homes, businesses, and community landmarks. Criticism has been directed at city and state leadership, with Mayor Karen Bass facing scrutiny for alleged disregard of fire department warnings about budget cuts. Fire Chief Kristin Crowley criticized the lack of water pressure at hydrants.
Governor Newsom has called for an independent investigation into the hydrant issues and the out-of-service reservoir. FOX Corporation and The Walt Disney Company have made significant donations to support wildfire relief efforts. FOX Corporation also encourages viewers to donate to the Red Cross to aid those affected by the fires.
