24 dead as fire crews try to corral Los Angeles blazes before winds return this week

[june04]

Firefighters in Los Angeles scrambled on Sunday to contain wildfires that have claimed 24 lives, destroyed thousands of homes, and left at least 16 people missing. With strong winds expected this week, authorities warned of worsening fire conditions.

The National Weather Service issued red flag warnings for severe fire weather through Wednesday. Meteorologist Rich Thompson highlighted the dangerous combination of gusty Santa Ana winds, dry air, and parched vegetation. Winds are predicted to reach up to 70 mph (113 kph) in the mountains, with Tuesday expected to pose the greatest threat.

To combat the flames, 70 additional water trucks have been deployed, and aircraft dropped fire retardant to create barriers on hillsides. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone assured the public that they were prepared for the upcoming wind event.

The Santa Ana winds have intensified wildfires sparked last week, transforming them into destructive infernos. The Eaton Fire and Palisades Fire have been particularly devastating, with 12 people missing in the Eaton Fire zone and four in the Palisades area. Officials are investigating whether some of the missing are among the dead, with no children reported missing.

The death toll has risen to 24, with eight deaths from the Palisades Fire and 16 from the Eaton Fire. Authorities expect the number to climb as cadaver dogs search through leveled neighborhoods. To assist families, a center has been established to report missing persons, and an online database is being developed to help evacuees check the status of their homes.

In the Palisades area, fires continue to burn, making it unsafe for residents to return. LA City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley warned of dangers such as broken gas lines, unstable structures, and toxic ash containing harmful substances like lead and asbestos. Over 150,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, with many taking shelter in evacuation centers.

Fire crews, supported by resources from nine states and Mexico, have been battling blazes that have consumed over 62 square miles (160 square kilometers). The Palisades Fire is 11% contained, while the Eaton Fire is at 27% containment. Crews are cautiously optimistic about minimal growth in the Eaton Fire.

On Saturday, firefighters made progress in Mandeville Canyon, home to celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger, as helicopters dumped water to prevent the flames from reaching densely populated areas. The fire briefly threatened Interstate 405, raising fears it could spread into the Hollywood Hills.

Looting has become a growing issue, with authorities reporting multiple arrests, including suspects posing as firefighters. Captain Michael Lorenz of the LAPD stated that officers are detaining about 10 looters daily. California National Guard troops have been deployed to protect properties.

Officials emphasized that evacuation orders in the Palisades area will likely remain in place until red flag warnings expire on Wednesday. LA County Fire Chief Marrone assured residents that repopulation plans will begin on Thursday, prioritizing safety as recovery efforts continue.