Southern California Wildfires Leave 25 Dead and Thousands Displaced
Fire crews battle to contain devastating blazes in Los Angeles as evacuation orders remain in effect and recovery efforts begin.
- The Los Angeles area faces ongoing fire threats, with strong winds forecasted to exacerbate existing wildfires through Wednesday evening.
- The Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire have destroyed over 12,000 buildings and caused at least 25 confirmed deaths, with more victims feared as search efforts continue.
- More than 90,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, with thousands seeking shelter in evacuation centers or with friends and family.
- Investigations suggest possible causes include reignited embers from a New Year's fire and faulty power lines, with lawsuits already filed against energy provider Southern California Edison.
- California Governor Gavin Newsom and President Joe Biden have pledged over $2.5 billion in state aid and federal disaster relief, alongside immediate assistance for affected residents.