🔥 Firefighters in Los Angeles are battling fierce wildfires for the sixth day straight! Taking advantage of a brief calm before the storm, they're racing to contain the flames before high winds make things worse. 😱
At least 24 people have lost their lives in what California Governor Gavin Newsom calls possibly the most devastating natural disaster in U.S. history. 💔 Thousands of homes have been destroyed, and over 100,000 people have been forced to evacuate. 🏠🌪️
Entire neighborhoods have been turned into ashes, affecting everyone from celebrities to everyday folks. The apocalyptic scenes are straight out of a movie! 🎬🔥 Officials report that over 12,300 structures have been damaged or destroyed. 🏚️
\"L.A. County had another night of unimaginable terror and heartbreak,\" said Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath. 😔
Aerial firefighters are scooping water from the Pacific Ocean 🌊🚁, dropping it over the Palisades Fire as it threatens upscale areas like Brentwood and other parts of Los Angeles. The fire has consumed 96 square kilometers and is only 13% contained. 🌲🔥
On the eastern side, the Eaton Fire has scorched another 57 square kilometers—almost the size of Manhattan! 🗽🔥 Firefighters have increased containment to 27%, up from 15% a day earlier. 💪
North of the city, the Hurst Fire is 89% contained, while three other fires are now fully under control. But beware—areas within containment lines might still be burning. 🔥🚨
🌬️ High winds returning soon!
Firefighters caught a break this weekend as the dreaded Santa Ana winds eased up. But starting tonight, these dry winds could reach up to 112 kph and last through Wednesday! Hold onto your hats! 🎩🌪️
Officials warn everyone in Los Angeles County—nearly 10 million people—that evacuations could happen anytime due to flames and toxic smoke. 😷🔥
Over 100,000 people have already been ordered to evacuate, and another 87,000 are on standby. \"These winds combined with low humidity will keep the fire threat very high,\" said Fire Chief Anthony Marrone. 🚒🔥
Schools will reopen on Monday, except for those in evacuation zones. Time to hit the books again! 📚✏️
Governor Newsom said the fires could be the worst natural disaster in U.S. history, with private forecaster AccuWeather estimating damages up to $150 billion! 💰😱
To speed up rebuilding efforts, Newsom signed an executive order to temporarily ease environmental regulations for destroyed homes and businesses. 📝🏗️
Federal help is on the way, with active-duty military personnel ready to support firefighting efforts. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell urges residents to begin filing for disaster relief. 📝💼
Firefighters from seven states, Canada, and Mexico have joined the battle against the flames. Talk about teamwork! 🤝🔥
Stay safe out there, Los Angeles! Our thoughts are with you. ❤️🙏
Reference(s):
Los Angeles races to contain wildfires before high winds return
cgtn.com
