LA fires death toll rises as officials warn against looting and price hikes | BBC News

Summary

Devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have claimed at least 16 lives, with a dozen still missing. Thousands of homes have been destroyed, and the fires continue to rage across vast areas. International help, including teams from Mexico and Canada, is bolstering firefighting efforts as the region braces for worsening winds. Survivors face immense losses, with some homes reduced to rubble, and many displaced. As the fires threaten iconic neighborhoods, including Pacific Palisades, local officials seek support for recovery efforts, while the community shows resilience in the face of disaster. The full scope of the destruction raises questions about rebuilding and the long-term impact on the city.

Takeaways

• 😀 The death toll from the fires has risen to 16, with over a dozen people still missing after five days of destruction.
• 🔥 Two major wildfires in Los Angeles remain largely uncontained, threatening large areas and homes, including upscale neighborhoods like Brentwood.
• 🌬️ Strong winds are forecast, making firefighting efforts more difficult and threatening to spread the blazes further.
• 🏙️ The fires have destroyed over 12,000 homes and buildings, including parts of the Pacific Palisades and Eaton fires, which have scorched over 55 square miles combined.
• 🚁 Firefighters are using aircraft to drop fire retardant and water on the blazes, but the strong winds have limited their effectiveness.
• 👨‍🚒 Firefighting teams from neighboring states, Canada, and Mexico are helping to combat the fires, with additional personnel arriving from Mexico.
• 🏘️ Local shelters are caring for over 450 animals displaced by the fires, while evacuees are desperately searching for lost pets.
• 🛑 A nighttime curfew has been implemented to prevent crime and protect those attempting to return to evacuated areas.
• 💔 Many survivors have lost everything, with homes reduced to rubble and some residents struggling to return to their communities.
• 💬 California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, expressed gratitude for international aid, with teams from Mexico arriving to assist in firefighting efforts.

Q & A

How many people have died in the wildfires so far?

At least 16 people have been killed in the wildfires, with a dozen still missing.

What is the current containment status of the Palisades and Eaton fires?

The Palisades fire is 11% contained, while the Eaton fire is 15% contained.

How large is the area affected by the two biggest fires?

The two largest fires have destroyed an area more than twice the size of New York's Manhattan.

What challenges do firefighters face in combating the wildfires?

Firefighters are facing unpredictable winds that can spread the fires rapidly, making it difficult to contain them. The winds are expected to increase, which could hinder firefighting efforts.

How are firefighting efforts being supported by other countries?

Firefighting teams from Mexico, Canada, and neighboring states have sent resources to assist in combating the fires in California.

What role has the National Guard played in the response to the fires?

The National Guard has been deployed to assist with firefighting efforts and enforce curfews to prevent looting during the crisis.

How have local shelters been helping animals affected by the fires?

Local shelters in Pasadena have been caring for more than 450 animals, either dropped off by evacuees or found wandering amid the destruction.

What emotional challenges are survivors facing in the aftermath of the fires?

Survivors are struggling with the loss of their homes, belongings, and in some cases, their pets. Some have lost everything, while others are trying to comprehend why some houses were spared while entire neighborhoods were destroyed.

What are the long-term challenges for rebuilding after the fires?

Rebuilding will be a monumental task due to the extensive damage, lack of construction workers, and the uncertainty of whether residents will want to return to these devastated communities.

What has been the response from local officials regarding federal assistance?

Local officials have written to President-elect Trump, requesting his involvement in wildfire recovery efforts and a visit to see the devastation firsthand. However, they have yet to receive a response.