The number of fatalities from fires in Southern California has reached 24 people. The fires have covered an area of 45 square miles in Los Angeles County, and thousands of firefighters have been mobilized to extinguish them.
One of the largest fires, — «Palisades» fire — has scorched 24,000 acres and destroyed thousands of structures; currently, only 11% of the fire is under control. Additionally, the “Eaton” fire north of Pasadena has covered more than 14,100 acres and is 27% contained. The “Hurst” fire near Sylmar has passed through 799 acres, with 89% of it contained.
Approximately 105,000 people have been forcibly evacuated, and another 87,000 people have been warned about the possibility of evacuation. Strong Santa Ana winds and drought are further intensifying the spread of the fires.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has mobilized an additional 1,000 National Guard troops to combat the fires. Furthermore, the Mayor of Los Angeles announced that the fund established to aid those affected by the fires has exceeded 6 million dollars.
Initial estimates place the damages from the fire at between 135 to 150 billion dollars.
Schools in the area had been closed, but the Los Angeles Department of Education plans to reopen some schools starting Monday depending on the location of schools and the air conditions.
The US Meteorological Service has issued a warning for strong winds and fire hazards in Southern California until Wednesday. Winds could reach speeds of up to 70 miles per hour.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), over 24,000 people have registered for assistance.
Abdulloh Sayyid
