Wildfires in the Los Angeles area are rapidly expanding due to fierce winds that have transformed these fires into catastrophic infernos, resulting in at least 16 fatalities and the destruction of over 12,000 buildings.
Firefighting aircraft released water and fire retardant on steep hillsides to curb the eastward advance of the Palisades wildfire in Los Angeles.
Concurrently, ground firefighting operations were ramped up in response to warnings of wind gusts reaching up to 70 miles per hour, which could exacerbate the situation.
In the midst of the devastating wildfires sweeping through California, Angelina Jolie has shown her support for evacuees by extending her hospitality.
The 49-year-old actor has welcomed friends who have been displaced from their homes, providing them with a refuge during this challenging time.
The Palisades Fire has consumed over 22,000 acres and resulted in the destruction of more than 5,000 structures, which includes 426 homes.
The fires have been intensified by hurricane-strength Santa Ana winds, which have reached speeds of up to 100 miles per hour in certain regions. These arid winds, with gusts reaching 70 mph, are anticipated to return, and when coupled with low humidity and parched vegetation, will maintain a significant fire risk in Los Angeles County.
The wildfires that ignited on January 7 have devastated around 39,000 acres, surpassing the size of San Francisco, and have obliterated entire communities. Preliminary assessments indicate that the damages and economic repercussions could range from $135 billion to $150 billion, which may render these wildfires the most expensive in the history of the United States.
