Today’s news / Death toll in LA wildfires reaches 24
- The County of Los Angeles has had yet another evening of incomprehensible horror and deep sorrow, says Linsey Horvarth, who is a member of the county's supervisory board. (Archive photo). Photo: Yasushi Kaneko/Ritzau Scanpix

Death toll in LA wildfires reaches 24

Wildfires around Los Angeles have led to 24 fatalities, with strong winds threatening to worsen the situation. Affected for six days, about 100,000 residents have evacuated as thousands of homes were destroyed. The fires have struck areas including Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Hollywood Hills, and Altadena, destroying around 12,000 buildings. Firefighters are combating the blazes from both air and land. The Palisades fire covers 96 sq km at 13% containment, while the Eaton fire is 27% contained over 57 sq km. The Hurst fire further north is 89% contained. While three other fires are fully contained, officials warn of remaining active flame zones.