Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles, Prompting Mass Evacuations and Billions in Damage

Wildfires have devastated parts of Los Angeles, claiming at least 11 lives, destroying over 10,000 structures, and forcing more than 144,000 residents to evacuate. The blazes, fueled by dry conditions and powerful Santa Ana winds, remain largely uncontained, with officials warning of worsening conditions due to climate change.

As of Saturday, the Palisades Fire, the largest and most destructive in Los Angeles history, has scorched over 20,000 acres and is only 8% contained. The Eaton Fire near Altadena and Pasadena has grown to more than 13,600 acres, with containment at just 3%. Authorities expect the death toll to rise as firefighters battle the flames.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered an independent investigation into water supply issues that hampered firefighting efforts. Firefighters reported losing water pressure in some areas, including Pacific Palisades, where hydrants ran dry. “Losing supplies from fire hydrants likely impaired the effort to protect some homes and evacuation corridors,” Newsom said in a statement.

National Guard troops have been deployed to prevent looting in evacuated areas, with 20 arrests reported so far. A man was arrested Thursday on suspicion of attempting to start a new fire, though he was charged only with a probation violation due to insufficient evidence of arson.

President Joe Biden acknowledged the efforts of firefighters but warned that winds would remain a threat until early next week. “Climate change, including increased heat, extended drought, and a thirsty atmosphere, has been a key driver in increasing the risk and extent of wildfires in the western United States,” said the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Oregon has sent more than 300 firefighters and 75 engines to assist in the crisis, marking one of the largest out-of-state responses in Oregon Fire Service history. “Our Oregon strike teams are motivated, committed to what they do, and excited to get out to the line and help where they are needed,” said Ian Yocum, Agency Administrator for the Oregon State Fire Marshal.

Insured losses from the fires are expected to exceed $8 billion, with high-value properties among the damaged structures. The region’s vulnerability to wildfires has been exacerbated by a decades-long drought that ended just two years ago, leaving behind tinder-dry vegetation.

As investigations into the causes of the fires continue, officials urge residents to remain vigilant and heed evacuation orders. “If it is determined that there is a man-made and intentional setting of any of the fires involved in this situation, the people who committed this arson will be arrested, they will be prosecuted, and they will be punished to the full extent of the law,” said LA District Attorney Nathan Hochman.