Announcements from the California state government or relevant agencies

Los Angeles Wildfires Kill 24 as Palisades and Eaton Fires Burn 40,000 Acres; 150,000 Evacuated

Jan 13, 2025, 09:30 AM

Wildfires tearing through the Los Angeles area since Tuesday have killed at least 24 people and destroyed more than 12,300 structures, burning over 40,000 acres—an area larger than San Francisco. The Eaton Fire and Palisades Fire, the largest blazes, have forced the evacuation of at least 150,000 residents. Sixteen deaths have been attributed to the Eaton Fire—now the fifth deadliest in California's history—and eight to the Palisades Fire, according to the Los Angeles County coroner’s office. Firefighters are bracing for strong Santa Ana winds expected from Monday through Wednesday, entering a critical stage that could exacerbate the situation and hinder containment efforts. Among the victims is a former child actor, according to his mother. Authorities have reported that 16 people remain missing, and the death toll is expected to rise. Over 14,000 emergency personnel from nine states have been deployed, and K9 units are searching for remains in the ashes of destroyed homes. Officials warn that dangerous winds could fuel the fires further.