Los Angeles wildfires kill 10, destroy 10,000 structures – Times of India

California wildfires (Picture credit: AP)

Wildfires across Los Angeles area in California, US, have killed 10 people and destroyed at least 10,000 structures, from the Pacific Coast to Pasadena, forcing thousands to evacuate as of Thursday evening. Strong winds fueled the blazes, which spread rapidly across the region. Although the winds calmed slightly, a high fire risk is predicted to continue into Friday.
Firefighters battle multiple large blazes
Firefighters are battling multiple large fires, including significant ones in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, which remained active Thursday evening. The Palisades Fire reached 6% containment by Thursday evening after burning since Tuesday.
Death toll reaches 10
The death toll from the two main fires has reached 10. Five fatalities occurred in the Eaton Fire near Pasadena, and two in the Pacific Palisades Fire.

Devastation and loss in communities
Among those who lost homes is Ann Kerr, the 90-year-old mother of Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr. “My mom is in good hands, but her house is gone,” Kerr said Thursday night. He confirmed his mother had evacuated earlier in the week.

School closures and destruction
All Los Angeles Unified schools will remain closed Friday due to the fires, with classes resuming when conditions improve. Two elementary schools were destroyed, and one high school suffered significant damage. The district is working to assist affected staff.

Kenneth fire ignites
A new fire, the Kenneth Fire, ignited Thursday afternoon near the West Hills neighborhood, prompting more evacuations. It grew rapidly, burning over a square mile within hours. Nine hundred additional firefighters were deployed to combat this fire. An erroneous countywide evacuation alert for the Kenneth Fire was sent but was intended only for Calabasas and Agoura Hills residents.

Fire weather risk continues
The high fire weather risk will persist through Friday, with strong Santa Ana winds expected to continue. Offshore winds are predicted into next week, with increased risk on Sunday and Tuesday through Wednesday. AccuWeather estimates total damage from the fires could reach $135-$150 billion.

National and international support
Canada has pledged support, with 250 firefighters and equipment ready to deploy. Alberta is also preparing to send resources. US vice president Kamala Harris canceled a planned foreign trip due to the fires, echoing President Biden’s decision to remain in Washington. Biden reassured those affected, saying, “We are with you. We’re not going anywhere.”