Los Angeles, United States: Devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have now claimed at least 10 lives, with thousands of residents displaced. As the firefighting effort continues, California’s National Guard is stepping in to assist in maintaining order and preventing looting.
A massive firefighting operation is ongoing, supported by helicopters dropping water on the flames during a brief break in winds. Despite the efforts, new fires continue to ignite, and authorities are struggling to control the widespread devastation.
Also Read
One of the largest fires has ravaged nearly 20,000 acres in the upscale Pacific Palisades neighborhood, while another fire in Altadena has burned 13,700 acres. Although containment efforts are underway in Pacific Palisades, high winds are expected to fuel the spread of new fires.
National guard deployed to prevent looting, maintain order
In response to reports of looting in the evacuation zones, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna has announced a curfew and deployed the National Guard to patrol the affected areas. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasised the importance of using every available resource to protect communities. “Looting will not be tolerated,” Newsom stated, as authorities work to secure the region.
With large parts of the city in ruins, many evacuees are growing frustrated with the slow response. Some residents, like Nicholas Norman, have resorted to personal vigilante actions to protect their properties. “I did the classic American thing: I went and got my shotgun and sat out there,” Norman said after spotting suspicious individuals near his home.
As residents begin returning to their homes, many are facing overwhelming destruction. Kalen Astoor, a local paralegal, described the scene as “death and destruction,” with several homes reduced to rubble. Aerial footage from the Pacific Palisades and Malibu areas revealed the extent of the damage, including multi-million dollar mansions destroyed by the flames. In Malibu, expensive oceanfront properties were destroyed, while in Pacific Palisades, roads once lined with stunning homes now look like graveyards.
Government response, ongoing fire risk
President Joe Biden has pledged additional federal funds and resources to assist California, calling it "the most devastating fire in California's history." Despite a lull in wind speeds, meteorologists warn that "critical" conditions persist, and fire growth is likely to continue.
Scientists also note that human-induced climate change is exacerbating the severity and spread of wildfires, with dry conditions and ample fuel contributing to the ongoing crisis.
As the fires continue, daily life in Los Angeles has been severely disrupted. Schools have closed, power outages are widespread, and major events, including an NFL playoff game, have been relocated to other areas. With strong winds expected to return, authorities are bracing for more challenges in containing the fires and preventing further damage.
Agency
Published: 10 Jan 2025, 12:09 pm IST
Related Topics
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.