In the United States, at least ten people have died as a result of an out-of-control wildfire tearing through parts of Los Angeles. Officials warn that the final death toll may rise as investigators are unable to access many neighborhoods due to ongoing danger.

Nearly 180,000 residents in Los Angeles County have been ordered to evacuate as the fires continue to spread. Early estimates suggest that over 5,300 structures, including homes and schools, have been destroyed. Among the blazes, the Palisades Fire, burning between Malibu and Santa Monica, has been declared the most destructive wildfire in the region’s history.

Adding to the chaos, a new fire erupted in the West Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles last evening, engulfing over 900 acres in just a few hours. Firefighters, already stretched thin across Southern California, are struggling to contain multiple wildfires that have devastated thousands of structures and displaced countless residents.

Federal and State Response

President Joe Biden announced that the federal government will cover costs associated with protecting lives and property in Southern California for the next six months. He also revealed the deployment of significant federal resources, including firefighters, aircraft, and military personnel, to support firefighting efforts and aid affected communities.

California’s National Guard has also been mobilized to assist in managing the escalating crisis. Despite these efforts, the largest wildfire remains uncontained, with forecasts of strong winds and dry conditions likely to exacerbate the flames in the coming days.

Impact on Iconic Landmarks and Residents

The wildfires have reached the densely populated Los Angeles metropolitan area, including the Hollywood Hills, threatening iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. Numerous celebrities, such as Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, James Woods, Adam Brody, Sir Anthony Hopkins, John Goodman, Anna Faris, and Cary Elwes, are reported to have lost their homes.

Also read : US: 5 Dead in Devastating California Wildfires

Firefighters have been working tirelessly, including overnight operations with helicopters, to combat the massive fires, which have already scorched over 17,000 acres. Authorities emphasize the critical need for residents to follow evacuation orders as they work to prevent further loss of life.

The situation remains dire, with Southern California grappling with one of its most devastating wildfire seasons in history.