Los Angeles, United States: A brief respite in wind speeds offered a glimmer of hope in the ongoing battle against five major wildfires that have devastated Los Angeles. As the fires rage across the city, firefighters are taking advantage of the calm weather to make progress in containing the blazes.
At least 10 people have died, and thousands of homes have been destroyed in what is being called one of California’s worst disasters. The cost of damages could reach as high as USD150 billion, with neighborhoods across Los Angeles left in ruin. "I lost everything. My house burned down and I lost everything," said Hester Callul, who fled her home in Altadena and found shelter.
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National guard deployed amid rising fears of looting
With rising concerns over looting, California Governor Gavin Newsom has called in the National Guard to assist with law enforcement efforts. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna has also imposed a curfew in some areas to ensure public safety and prevent burglaries.
"This curfew will be strictly enforced and is being taken to enhance public safety, protect property and prevent any burglaries or looting in the area that the residents have evacuated," Luna stated. He also warned, "We are not screwing around with this."
Firefighting efforts underway
The fires have consumed over 35,000 acres (14,000 hectares) of land, according to California's fire agency. Although the cause of the fires is still under investigation, firefighters have made significant progress in some areas.
The largest fire has burned through more than 20,000 acres of the upscale Pacific Palisades neighborhood, where containment efforts are now at 8%. Firefighters are beginning to gain control over the flames. The Eaton fire in Altadena, which has scorched nearly 14,000 acres, remains a major threat, with only 3% of it contained.
Celebrities among victims
The fires have also affected high-profile individuals, including socialite Paris Hilton. Hilton shared her heartbreak on Instagram, writing, "Heartbroken beyond words... watching the news, and seeing our home in Malibu burn to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience."
The fires are expected to be among the costliest ever recorded, with estimates of damage ranging between $135 billion and $150 billion. The devastation has disrupted daily life in Los Angeles, with schools closed, power outages affecting hundreds of thousands, and major events like the NFL playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings being canceled or relocated.
A temporary break in winds
Meteorologists are forecasting a drop in wind speeds through Friday and Saturday, providing an opportunity for firefighters to make headway in controlling the fires. However, experts warn that the winds could pick up again soon, and the situation remains "very dangerous."
"We're seeing a little bit of a decrease now, but more so this afternoon dropping off, and then not much wind tomorrow, until later in the day," said Mike Woofford, a meteorologist at the National Weather Center.
While wildfires occur naturally, scientists have warned that human-caused climate change is altering weather patterns and contributing to the increasing frequency and intensity of these fires. After two wet years in southern California, this year's dry conditions have left ample fuel for the fires to spread.
Agency
Published: 11 Jan 2025, 07:59 am IST
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