Los Angeles Wildfires: Death Toll climbs to 24 as blazes threaten landmarks
The death toll from the devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area rose to at least 24 late Sunday, as emergency crews continued to uncover more casualties amidst the charred remnants of neighborhoods. Officials fear the number could climb higher as search teams and cadaver dogs comb through leveled communities.
Fierce flames, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, have ravaged over 16,000 hectares across the region, destroying more than 12,000 structures. The fires have forced 150,000 residents to evacuate, with over 700 people seeking refuge in nine shelters.

Escalating Threats with Winds Picking Up
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell warned that worsening winds could further complicate firefighting efforts. “The winds are potentially getting stronger and dangerous,” she said, adding that unpredictable gusts make containment efforts increasingly challenging.
The National Weather Service predicts winds of up to 48 kph with gusts reaching 112 kph in the coming days, raising concerns about the fires spreading to densely populated areas.
Key Landmarks at Risk
The advancing flames have sparked fears for major Los Angeles landmarks, including the J. Paul Getty Museum and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Officials are working to protect these cultural and educational institutions as the fires approach.
“Like a War Zone”: Devastation Across Communities
California Senator Adam Schiff described the devastation as reminiscent of a war zone. “There are whole neighborhoods that are gone,” he said. “The heartbreak is just overwhelming.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom echoed these sentiments, calling the wildfires potentially the worst natural disaster in U.S. history, with estimated damages and economic losses between $135 billion and $150 billion.
Investigating Firefighting Challenges
Amidst the devastation, questions have arisen about the water system’s capacity to support firefighting efforts. Newsom ordered an independent review after discovering that a 440-million-liter reservoir was out of service, and some hydrants had run dry.
“People are asking, ‘What the hell happened?’” Newsom said, emphasizing the need for objective answers. “Were the 99-mile-an-hour winds determinative, or could more have been done?”
Firefighters Race to Contain the Blazes
Of the four active fires in Los Angeles, two have reached containment levels of 90% and 76%, while the Palisades fire, the largest and most destructive, remains only 11% contained. This blaze threatens to jump Interstate 405 and spread into more heavily populated areas.
Firefighting crews from 10 states, including newly arrived personnel from Mexico, have joined the effort, which now includes 1,354 fire engines, 84 aircraft, and over 14,000 responders.
Jim Hudson, a Cal Fire incident commander, outlined the team’s priorities: “Life, your property, and permanent control of the flames.”
A Community United in Crisis
Despite the immense challenges, communities and responders remain resilient. Officials continue to investigate the causes of the fires, working tirelessly to bring them under control.
With fierce winds forecast to persist, the fight against the Los Angeles wildfires is far from over. The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparation in the face of disaster. [VOA News]
Some information for this report came from The Associated Press.