- Strong winds weaken in Los Angeles but threats still remain
- Firefighters making headway in containing the two largest blazes
- Officials reported little to no fire growth over the past 24 hours
- Dry vegetation and low humidity still pose threat
Strong winds weaken in Los Angeles but threats still remain
After nine gruelling days of battling two massive wildfires in Los Angeles, firefighters finally caught a break on Thursday as fierce winds weakened, providing much-needed relief.
The hurricane-force gusts that had fueled the fires and complicated rescue efforts have diminished to lighter breezes, helping crews make headway in containing the two largest blazes. Together, these fires have scorched approximately 40,000 acres.
The fires, Eaton and Palisades, have claimed at least 27 lives and destroyed more than 12,000 structures, marking one of the most devastating wildfire events in LA’s history. International aid has been called in, with firefighting reinforcements arriving from Mexico and Canada.
Officials reported little to no fire growth over the past 24 hours, but warned that dry vegetation and low humidity still pose significant risks.
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Daryl Marrone indicated progress in firefighting efforts but cautioned that evacuated residents won’t be allowed to return for at least another week, even in areas deemed safe.
Currently, around 82,400 residents remain under evacuation orders, according to LA County Sheriff Robert Luna. He also reported 47 arrests related to looting and violations of evacuation and curfew orders.
While conditions have improved, officials are urging residents to stay vigilant as crews work tirelessly to contain the remaining flames.