24 people killed in wildfires in Los Angeles; thousands of houses destroyed

WASHINGTON: The death toll from the wildfires in Los Angeles, USA, has risen to 24, with many still missing. California Governor Gavin Newsom described it as one of the most devastating natural disasters in the history of the USA. Thousands of houses have been destroyed, and only 11–15% of the wildfire has been brought under control. Wildfires remain active in four areas around Los Angeles, with 76% of the blaze in Sylmar now under control.

Electricity is yet to be restored to 35,000 homes. Approximately 12,000 structures have been damaged or completely destroyed in the fires. Over 1 lakh people have been evacuated from areas affected by the spreading fire. Reports estimate that the wildfires have caused damage worth several crores.

Residents in parts of Brentwood have been advised to evacuate. Prominent figures, including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and actor and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, have homes in Brentwood. The situation remains critical in the Pacific Palisades region. Various parts of Los Angeles are engulfed in ash and smoke. Authorities have issued cautionary advisories to the public.