Numerous reports indicate that the looming winds are at an “extremely critical” stage. Wildfires continue to rampage in southern California, resulting in the evacuation of over 92,000 residents of Los Angeles County.
Officials have reported that at least 24 individuals have died and that numerous others are still missing.
At Monday’s news conference, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass reiterated the city’s strategy for managing the ongoing wildfires, stating, “My primary concern, and the primary concern of all others, is to ensure the safety of lives.” Recently, Bass has been criticised regarding the authorities’ response to the flames and the events that preceded them.
The Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires have resulted in the loss of nearly 39,000 acres thus far.
According to the National Weather Service in Los Angeles, the progress made in suppressing the historic fires will be jeopardised by the windy conditions expected to persist in west Los Angeles County and most of Ventura County over the next few days.
Nevertheless, the Los Angeles Unified School District announced on Sunday that most campuses would reopen on Monday. This announcement was made the same day Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order to “direct fast action to clear wildfire debris across Southern California and prepare for the heightened risk” of mudslides in the affected areas.
Fire Chief Warns Los Angeles Residents of Further Evacuations
January is typically the second-wettest month in Southern California; however, no precipitation has occurred thus far this year. Due to low humidity and intense winds, officials anticipate the situation will deteriorate, so a red flag warning will be in effect until Wednesday.
President Joe Biden stated on Monday, expressing his condolences to the families of the victims who have perished in the wildfires and stating that he is receiving “frequently briefed” on the situation.
“At my direction, hundreds of federal personnel and unique federal aerial and ground support has been sent to California to support the firefighting efforts and help communities in need,” the president who is leaving said.
Biden’s declaration of action regarding the conflagration occurred mere days before Trump’s second inauguration, amid concerns about the president-elect’s potential reluctance to assist the liberal-leaning state.
Newsom established www.californiafirefacts.com on Saturday to combat what he termed “misinformation and disinformation” that was purportedly disseminated by President-elect Donald Trump and his billionaire adviser, Elon Musk, on his social media platform, X.
On the other hand, Biden stated that his administration is “laser-focused on helping survivors and we will continue to use every tool available to support the urgent firefight as the winds are projected to increase.”
According to officials, the Eaton and Palisades fires were likely the second and fourth most destructive in the state’s history.
The Eaton fire has consumed approximately 14,117 acres and is currently only 33% contained. However, the adjacent Palisades fire has claimed approximately 23,713 acres and is only 14% contained.
According to a Pentagon official on Monday, U.S. military aircraft dropped over 16,000 litres of fire suppressant on wildfires over the weekend.
“Eight C-130s, equipped with the modular airborne fire-fighting system or MAFFS, are currently on station at Channel Islands Air National Guard Station to support aerial firefighting efforts,” Major General Pat Ryder confirmed.
Ryder anticipates that there will be additional MAFFS missions on Monday.
In the interim, inhabitants of Los Angeles County have been encouraged to prepare for additional evacuation operations.
Anthony Marrone, the Fire Chief of L.A. County, stated, “We are aware from our own experience that if you wait for the order, you may become entangled in the congestion.” “We know we had some issues earlier, but please do not turn off those wireless emergency alerts on your telephone.”
However, Morrone did suggest that Los Angeles officials are “certainly more prepared” for the upcoming winds due to the increased personnel, aircraft, and resources from California’s mobilisation centre.
Looting, arson, and other illicit activities have been reported in locations such as Pacific Palisades since the wildfires began.
Between January 7 and January 12, the Santa Monica Police Department conducted 39 arrests and reported 10 burglaries in evacuation zones.
Nathan Hochman, the District Attorney of Los Angeles County, announced a series of allegations against suspects on Monday. He has pledged to prosecute them “to the fullest extent of the law.”
Salman Ahmad is known for his significant contributions to esteemed publications like the Times of India and the Express Tribune. Salman has carved a niche as a freelance journalist, combining thorough research with engaging reporting.
