At least 24 people have died in devastating wildfires sweeping through the Los Angeles area in California, according to the city’s medical examiner on Sunday.
Sixteen of the fatalities are linked to the Eaton Fire near Pasadena, while eight are attributed to the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades. These two blazes are the most severe among several fires that have ravaged the region since Tuesday.
Authorities fear the death toll may rise as it could take days for emergency responders to access all affected areas.
Firefighters are preparing for worsening conditions, with winds expected to intensify in the coming days. Officials warn the disaster could rank among the worst in U.S. history.
The U.S. Weather Service has predicted wind speeds of up to 110 km/h on Sunday, coupled with dry vegetation, creating a perfect storm for the rapid and unpredictable spread of fires.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) has issued a “critical fire weather” warning through Wednesday, citing life-threatening winds and dangerously low humidity from Ventura to San Diego.
Cal Fire urged residents to avoid activities that could spark fires, such as mowing lawns or parking vehicles on dry grass, and to ensure campfires are fully extinguished.
Since Tuesday, nearly 163 square kilometers of land—almost the size of Washington, D.C.—have been consumed by flames, destroying or damaging approximately 12,300 structures, according to Cal Fire.
California Governor Gavin Newsom described the wildfires as potentially the worst natural disaster in U.S. history, citing the scale, scope, and financial impact.
In response, Newsom signed an executive order temporarily suspending environmental regulations to expedite the rebuilding of destroyed homes and businesses.
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