Firefighters gained ground Friday on two massive wildfires in Los Angeles County as fierce winds eased. Since Tuesday, six blazes have ravaged neighborhoods, killing 11, destroying 10,000 structures, and displacing thousands. The Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, previously uncontained, were 8% and 3% contained respectively, after consuming 35,000 acres.
Over 153,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, with another 166,800 on alert. Aid from seven states, the federal government, and Canada bolstered firefighting efforts, with aerial and ground teams tackling the flames. Cal Fire credited increased resources and improved weather for progress, though conditions remain critical due to dry vegetation and low humidity.
Residents returned to find homes reduced to rubble. Kelly Foster, a Pacific Palisades resident, described the emotional devastation, while others worried about unequal resource distribution and insurance hurdles.
Meanwhile, tens of thousands are without power, and air quality remains hazardous due to toxic smoke. The damage, estimated at $135-$150 billion, signals a long road to recovery.
President Biden declared the fires a major disaster, pledging full federal support for six months to aid recovery efforts. Despite progress, officials warn of renewed fire risks as conditions remain volatile.
Also read: Kinder Morgan Shuts Fuel Pipelines Due to Power Outages Amid LA Wildfires
