Local officials warn that death toll could increase in Los Angeles wildfires
President-elect Donald Trump described the disaster as “one of the worst” in US history. For the full article, visit RT.com.
TroibNews 
Los Angeles city officials have issued warnings that the death toll from the wildfires devastating the region could rise as search and rescue operations continue, and firefighters battle to contain the blazes. Currently, at least 16 fatalities have been confirmed, with 13 individuals still unaccounted for, and more than 12,000 structures have been destroyed, officials reported.
The wildfires have consumed 39,000 acres, forcing the evacuation of 180,000 residents. High winds, with gusts reaching 100 mph, have created perilous conditions for firefighting efforts.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna has indicated that the death toll is anticipated to increase as search dogs are sent into severely affected areas.
President-elect Donald Trump has openly criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom’s management of the wildfires, claiming that he has prioritized environmental concerns over effective firefighting measures.
“The fires are still raging in L.A. The incompetent pols have no idea how to put them out. Thousands of magnificent houses are gone, and many more will soon be lost. There is death all over the place. This is one of the worst catastrophes in the history of our Country. They just can’t put out the fires. What’s wrong with them?” he posted on Truth Social on Sunday.
Among the various wildfires, the largest is the Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7 in Pacific Palisades. This fire has burned through 23,500 acres and is currently only 11% under control.
A video shared on X showcased a significant fire tornado, or “firenado,” forming during the Palisades Fire. This unusual phenomenon is a result of intense heat and turbulent winds, creating a whirlwind of flames that spreads the fire rapidly. Another clip depicts bikers navigating through streets engulfed in flames, capturing the destructive scene.
Local authorities report that hundreds of inmates, comprising one-third of the firefighting workforce, are engaged in battling the wildfires in Southern California.
In Altadena and Pasadena, the Eaton Fire has resulted in eight deaths and devastated over 7,000 structures. Evacuation orders have been issued for Altadena, Kinneloa Mesa, La Canada Flintridge, and parts of Pasadena and Arcadia.
The Kenneth Fire, which began on January 9 in West Hills, has expanded to cover over 1,000 acres, jeopardizing homes in Calabasas and Hidden Hills, prompting evacuation orders for affected neighborhoods.
In response to the crisis, Newsom declared a state of emergency and deployed National Guard troops to aid in the efforts. He also has requested a state investigation into the malfunctioning fire hydrants, which have complicated firefighting operations.
President Joe Biden has approved a Major Disaster Declaration, allowing federal resources to be allocated toward response and recovery efforts.
Investigators are currently examining the causes of the wildfires, with reports indicating that electrical explosions may have preceded some of the blazes.
Sophie Wagner for TROIB News
The wildfires have consumed 39,000 acres, forcing the evacuation of 180,000 residents. High winds, with gusts reaching 100 mph, have created perilous conditions for firefighting efforts.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna has indicated that the death toll is anticipated to increase as search dogs are sent into severely affected areas.
President-elect Donald Trump has openly criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom’s management of the wildfires, claiming that he has prioritized environmental concerns over effective firefighting measures.
“The fires are still raging in L.A. The incompetent pols have no idea how to put them out. Thousands of magnificent houses are gone, and many more will soon be lost. There is death all over the place. This is one of the worst catastrophes in the history of our Country. They just can’t put out the fires. What’s wrong with them?” he posted on Truth Social on Sunday.
Among the various wildfires, the largest is the Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7 in Pacific Palisades. This fire has burned through 23,500 acres and is currently only 11% under control.
A video shared on X showcased a significant fire tornado, or “firenado,” forming during the Palisades Fire. This unusual phenomenon is a result of intense heat and turbulent winds, creating a whirlwind of flames that spreads the fire rapidly. Another clip depicts bikers navigating through streets engulfed in flames, capturing the destructive scene.
Local authorities report that hundreds of inmates, comprising one-third of the firefighting workforce, are engaged in battling the wildfires in Southern California.
In Altadena and Pasadena, the Eaton Fire has resulted in eight deaths and devastated over 7,000 structures. Evacuation orders have been issued for Altadena, Kinneloa Mesa, La Canada Flintridge, and parts of Pasadena and Arcadia.
The Kenneth Fire, which began on January 9 in West Hills, has expanded to cover over 1,000 acres, jeopardizing homes in Calabasas and Hidden Hills, prompting evacuation orders for affected neighborhoods.
In response to the crisis, Newsom declared a state of emergency and deployed National Guard troops to aid in the efforts. He also has requested a state investigation into the malfunctioning fire hydrants, which have complicated firefighting operations.
President Joe Biden has approved a Major Disaster Declaration, allowing federal resources to be allocated toward response and recovery efforts.
Investigators are currently examining the causes of the wildfires, with reports indicating that electrical explosions may have preceded some of the blazes.
Sophie Wagner for TROIB News
