Palisades Fire Threatens LA Communities
The Palisades Fire, on the outskirts of Los Angeles, is moving towards dense residential areas, prompting new evacuations. As the death toll increases to 24, authorities are on high alert.
Getty Center at Risk
There is growing concern that the Getty Center, home to invaluable art collections, may be in the path of the Palisades Fire, which is the largest of the four ongoing fires.
Fires Push Toward Populated Areas
The fire threatens to cross Interstate 405, endangering more populated regions. With only 15% containment, officials worry that strong winds could worsen the situation.
Missing Persons Increase
Sheriff Robert Luna reported that 16 people are currently missing due to the fires. As of Sunday, 12 were missing from the Eaton fire zone and four from the Palisades blaze.
Multiple Fires Challenge Firefighters
Fire crews are battling five separate blazes around Los Angeles. Governor Gavin Newsom warned that these fires could become one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history. A comprehensive “Marshall Plan” is being planned to rebuild affected areas.
Winds Fuel the Flames
Firefighters struggled to control the Palisades blaze as winds pushed it towards the San Fernando Valley. Officials warned that high winds could continue fueling the fires.
Rising Death Toll
The death toll from the wildfires, which began on Tuesday, has risen to 16, according to the Los Angeles Medical Examiner. The Palisades and Eaton Fire zones have seen the most casualties.
Health Threat from Smoke
Residents have been advised to stay indoors due to toxic smoke. Health officials emphasize the importance of using air filtration systems and N95 masks, especially for vulnerable groups.
Impact on Sports and Events
Due to the fires, several sporting events, including an NFL playoff game, have been relocated or canceled. The LA Rams’ game against the Minnesota Vikings has been moved to Arizona.
Fires Expected to Burn for Days
The National Weather Service predicts that worsening wind conditions could keep the fires burning until at least Wednesday. Strong winds are expected through early next week.
Current Fire Status
- Palisades Fire: Over 22,000 acres burned, 11% contained.
- Eaton Fire: Over 14,000 acres burned, 15% contained.
- Hurst Fire: Nearly 800 acres burned, 76% contained.
- Kenneth Fire: Over 1,000 acres burned, 80% contained.
