At least 10 people have died in massive wildfires burning in several cities in Los Angeles County
At least 10 people have died in massive wildfires burning in several cities in Los Angeles County. The Pacific Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires are considered the most destructive in the region’s history.
County Sheriff Robert Luna called the fires “one of the worst disasters” he has ever seen. “The neighborhoods look like they were nuked,” Luna said, adding that the death toll is likely to rise.
The blazes have destroyed thousands of homes and businesses and displaced nearly 180,000 people. Among the hardest hit areas are Pacific Palisades and Eaton Canyon, where entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble.
One of the most active fires, the Kenneth Fire, has covered an area of 300 hectares in a short time. Evacuations have been announced in the areas of West Hills, Hidden Hills and Calabasas. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass warned that the situation could worsen due to increasing winds.
The fire has affected about 40 km of territory north of the city. The prestigious areas of Pacific Palisades and Malibu have also suffered. In the latter, the fire has destroyed many houses, including the residence of the family of the famous actress Paris Hilton.
According to preliminary data, the fires have destroyed at least five churches, a synagogue, seven schools, two libraries and dozens of businesses. However, the authorities have not yet provided exact information on the extent of the damage. AccuWeather experts estimate the total economic damage in the range of 135 to 150 billion dollars.
Experts note the unusual nature of the situation: the fires began outside the traditional season, when weather conditions are conducive to fires. The causes of the fires are still being investigated, and an investigation is underway.
In connection with the disaster, US President Joe Biden declared California a major disaster area and canceled a planned trip to Italy. Vice President Kamala Harris also refused to visit abroad, remaining in the US to coordinate federal efforts to eliminate the consequences of the natural disaster.
