Southern California continues to grapple with devastating wildfires that have swept through the Los Angeles region since Tuesday, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread property destruction. According to the county coroner’s office, the death toll has risen to ten, with five fatalities reported in the Eaton Fire near Pasadena and two in the Pacific Palisades Fire.
The ongoing blaze has left a path of ruin across Los Angeles, home to the renowned Hollywood film industry. AFP reported that the Department of Medical Examiner confirmed ten fire-related deaths as of 9 PM on January 9. All victims are currently unidentifiable, and legal next of kin notifications are pending. Authorities anticipate that the number of casualties may increase as rescue operations continue amidst the rubble.
Firefighters are battling multiple conflagrations exacerbated by fierce winds, resulting in extensive destruction, loss of life, and displacement of residents, including several Hollywood celebrities who have lost their luxurious homes. Over 10,000 buildings have been consumed by the flames, prompting relentless efforts by authorities to contain the fires.
National Guard Deployed Amid Looting Concerns
The scale of destruction has led to concerns over potential looting, prompting the deployment of the California National Guard. As fires raged into the night, aided by helicopters and a temporary reduction in wind speeds, reports of looting began to surface. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced the implementation of a nighttime curfew and the deployment of National Guard troops to patrol affected neighborhoods, as cited by AFP. Governor Gavin Newsom reaffirmed the state’s commitment to deploying all available resources, including the National Guard, to safeguard evacuated areas in the coming days.
Governor Newsom stated, “To those who might attempt to exploit evacuated communities, know that looting will not be tolerated.” Sheriff Luna echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that looters would face strict enforcement, with officers actively patrolling evacuation zones and making arrests as necessary. However, the extensive damage has left some evacuees feeling that law enforcement resources are stretched thin, leading individuals like Nicholas Norman to take personal measures for protection. Norman reportedly armed himself with a shotgun after noticing suspicious activity near his residence.
Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, and Altadena Among the Hardest Hit
The wildfires, driven by powerful Santa Ana winds reaching speeds of over 70 mph (112 kph), have caused severe devastation in several affluent coastal neighborhoods. The Pacific Palisades, known for its celebrity residences, along with Pasadena and Altadena, have been particularly affected. The Pacific Palisades Fire has destroyed or damaged over 5,300 structures, marking it as the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history. The area has seen over 30 square miles (77 square kilometers) engulfed in flames, reducing numerous blocks to smoldering ruins with only the outlines of buildings and chimneys remaining.
The Eaton Fire, located north of Pasadena, has incinerated more than 5,000 structures, including homes, apartments, commercial buildings, and vehicles. In Altadena, five school campuses suffered substantial damage, and over 21 square miles (54 square kilometers) have been scorched.
While wind speeds have decreased as of Thursday, the National Weather Service warns that even the lower gusts can still facilitate rapid fire spread. Additionally, there is an expectation of another surge in strong winds by Tuesday evening, potentially reigniting the fires.
As firefighters continue their relentless battle against the flames, the community remains on edge, awaiting further updates on the situation and the eventual stabilization of the affected areas.
Source: Hindustan Times
