Death toll reaches 24 as LA fire expected to intensify

Firefighters have intensified their efforts to combat wildfires in Los Angeles, which have claimed at least 24 lives, destroyed thousands of homes, and left 16 people missing from fire-ravaged areas.

However, the weather forecast for the affected state signals further danger, as winds are expected to strengthen this week.

The National Weather Service issued red flag warnings for severe weather on Wednesday, predicting gusts in the mountains reaching 70 mph (113 kph). Meteorologist Rich Thompson noted that Tuesday is expected to be the most dangerous day.

“We will have critical fire weather conditions out there,” said Thompson, attributing his forecast to a “very dry atmosphere and very dry brushes.”

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C Marrone assured that his team is “prepared for the upcoming wind event,” adding that aircraft retardants will be used to control the blaze during the strong winds.

County Sheriff Robert Luna reported that at least 12 people are missing in Eaton, and four are unaccounted for in the Palisades fire zone. However, no children have been reported missing so far.

He added that investigators believe some of the missing individuals may be among the deceased. “I don’t expect good news from those,” he remarked.

Eight deaths were attributed to the Palisades Fire, and 16 to the Eaton Fire.

According to USA Today, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said firefighters from Mexico, Canada, and nearby states are assisting in battling the fire.

Amid reports of robberies and plundering in abandoned houses, California Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X on Saturday, stating, “California will NOT allow for looting.”

Authorities have arrested at least seven suspects in recent days, including two individuals “posing as firefighters and entering houses.”