California Wildfires: Mexican Firefighters Join Battle as Death Toll Rises

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Mexican firefighters have arrived in California to assist in battling deadly wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles County, as the death toll climbs to 25 and thousands of structures lie in ruins. The fires, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, have burned over 155 square miles, with the Eaton and Palisades fires being the most destructive in Southern California history.

As of Wednesday, the Eaton Fire is 45% contained after burning 5,700 acres, while the Palisades Fire has destroyed over 5,000 structures. Authorities have confirmed 17 deaths from the Eaton Fire and eight from the Palisades Fire, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. The arrival of Mexican firefighters comes as local crews face critical fire conditions, with dangerous winds expected to persist until mid-afternoon in Ventura and Los Angeles counties.

“We are in a critical period,” said Kristin Crowley, Chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department, during a press conference. “The combination of low humidity and strong winds has dried out vegetation, increasing the fire risk. The danger is not over.”

Residents who evacuated are eager to return, but officials warn that significant safety and infrastructure issues remain, including downed power lines, broken gas pipes, and toxic ash. “We understand the desire to return, but there are still major hazards,” Crowley added.

In response to the crisis, federal and local law enforcement agencies have formed a joint task force to investigate and prosecute crimes related to the wildfires. The Regional Joint Arson and Wildfire Crimes Task Force will focus on looting, theft, identity theft, arson, illegal drone activity, and financial fraud targeting disaster victims and charitable donors. “We will not allow victims to be victimized again,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada in a statement.

Meanwhile, displaced residents are finding temporary shelter through FEMA’s Transitional Shelter Assistance program, which covers hotel costs for eligible survivors. FEMA Administrator Robert Fenton Jr. announced that the program is now open, with over 53,000 registrations received and nearly $12 million in aid provided.

Schools in Pacific Palisades, destroyed by the fires, have relocated students to temporary campuses. “We have a fundamental responsibility to normalize conditions for these children,” said Alberto Carvalho, Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District.

As the region braces for another round of Santa Ana winds next week, officials urge residents to remain vigilant. “The threat of fire remains high,” said the National Weather Service. “Until we receive significant rainfall, the danger will persist.”