Wildfires Force 150,000 to Evacuate in Los Angeles

Intense wildfires in and around Los Angeles have forced over 150,000 residents to evacuate, according to the city’s sheriff. At least eleven people have died, and thirteen remain missing.

The fires, raging since last Wednesday, have devastated approximately 145 square kilometers. Over 12,000 structures, including homes, businesses, and vehicles, have been destroyed or damaged, with nearly 60,000 more at risk.

The fires have also ravaged the natural landscapes. Firefighters have yet to gain control over the four major fires, despite having nearly extinguished smaller ones.

The Pacific Palisades area is particularly affected, with damages assessed via aerial surveys. Described by U.S. media as a “perfect storm,” the region is extremely dry from lack of rain since May, and strong winds are expected after the weekend, potentially exacerbating the fires.

Nearly 7,500 firefighters, including personnel from Mexico and fire trucks from Canada, are combating the blazes. A curfew, set by the Los Angeles sheriff to prevent looting, is in effect from 6 PM to 6 AM in Pacific Palisades and Eaton.

The police have reported 22 arrests, warning that unauthorized individuals could face jail time. Celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, and Leighton Meester have lost their homes.

The damage is estimated in the billions. Dutch actor and honorary consul Reinout Oerlemans, as well as singer Duncan Laurence, also reside in the affected zone.

Experts predict that it will take weeks to fully contain the fires.

Source: NOS

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