Friday, January 17, 2025

At least 25 people have been killed in the wildfires still raging across Los Angeles County.

The fires have scorched over 40,000 acres, destroying mansions, critical infrastructure, and causing hazardous air quality.

California Governor Gavin Newsom called the fires one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history, citing the scale, scope, and costs.

The Palisades and Eaton Fires are among the state's most destructive.

Firefighters have made significant progress by week's end, aided by favorable weather conditions, but officials are preparing for another dangerous Santa Ana wind event next week.

A message reading, "Bless This House," is seen on the remains of a home destroyed by the Palisades Fire in Malibu, California, on Thursday. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong

"Next week is a concern," said the National Weather Service's Los Angeles office. "More extreme winds are expected... our community needs to stay ready," added Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley.

The city is preparing for potential rain that could cause hazardous debris flows. Mark Pestrella, Director of Los Angeles County Public Works, warned that significant rain could lead to dangerous debris flows in impacted areas.

Julia Musto

US Science and Climate Correspondent | @JuliaElenaMusto

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INDYBEST / BEST BUYS

CLIMATE IN NUMBERS

$8 billion

That's how much Los Angeles sports teams donated to their city's fire victims

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK

There's nothing left. I've been here about an hour and a half and I don't want to leave.

Thomas Korn, an Altadena, California, resident was emotional speaking about his now destroyed home.

Read more

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