Wildfires in Los Angeles have killed at least 10 people and destroyed nearly 10,000 structures. Strong desert winds fanned the flames into a third night on Thursday.
The Palisades Fire burned between Santa Monica and Malibu, and the Eaton Fire spread near Pasadena. Both fires became the most destructive in Los Angeles history. Together, they burned over 34,000 acres, reducing neighborhoods to ashes.
The Medical Examiner confirmed 10 deaths but withheld identities. Sheriff Robert Luna warned the death toll could rise. He described the destruction as resembling an atomic bomb’s aftermath.
AccuWeather estimated losses at $135–$150 billion. Experts predicted high recovery costs and rising insurance rates.
Mayor Karen Bass vowed to rebuild the city. President-elect Donald Trump and Republicans criticized her disaster response. President Joe Biden declared a major disaster on Tuesday.
He promised full federal aid for recovery over 180 days. The funds will cover debris removal, shelters, and first responders’ salaries. Biden urged local leaders to spare no expense to contain the fires.
Aircraft dropped water and fire retardants on the blazes. A Super Scooper also collided with a civilian drone and was grounded near the Palisades Fire. The Kenneth Fire erupted near Calabasas, burning 960 acres in hours. The fire threatened celebrity homes and gated communities.
Officials mistakenly sent a countywide evacuation alert. A correction followed shortly. The Eaton Fire damaged 4,000–5,000 structures. The Palisades Fire destroyed or damaged another 5,300 structures.
Residents of Pacific Palisades returned to charred homes. Brick chimneys and ashes remained. Security guard Bilal Tukhi guarded a damaged home. He compared the scene to war-torn Afghanistan. Schools closed again on Friday due to polluted air.
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Wildfires Near Los Angeles Remain Uncontrolled as Winds Intensify
