At the same time, four large wildfires broke out across Los Angeles (LA), the largest city in the western United States, resulting in at least two deaths and the destruction of more than 1,000 buildings. The wildfire, which started along the coast, spread rapidly riding on localized gusts known as the "Devil Winds," and combined with other wildfires, the local situation has effectively spiraled into an uncontrollable state with a "0% containment rate."
According to local media including CNN on the 8th (local time), the death toll from the wildfires has been confirmed at two so far. Additionally, as firefighting efforts face difficulties and the flames spread to residential areas and hills, there is concern that casualties may increase. CNN reported the situation on the ground, stating, "The containment rate of the wildfires is 0%" and "The fire is spreading across entire neighborhoods in a short time."
The wildfire that broke out on the morning of the previous day in Pacific Palisades along the LA coast is rapidly spreading due to the localized gusts called the "Santa Ana" winds. So far, more than 15,000 acres have burned, and at least 1,000 buildings have been destroyed. Major international media including The Guardian have described this as the most destructive wildfire in LA's history. The gusts at the wildfire site on the morning of that day were measured at speeds up to 160 km/h, exhibiting hurricane-level force.
Meanwhile, at least two people died in a wildfire that broke out the previous night in Eaton, California. Fire authorities confirmed that "serious injuries" occurred among residents who were unable to evacuate in time. Wildfires also broke out in Hearst and Woodley, California, respectively on the previous night and the morning of the current day.
Especially due to the strong winds hampering firefighting efforts, CNN analyzed that evacuation orders have been issued for an estimated 150,000 people across LA County. This is roughly double the 70,000 people estimated by authorities earlier that morning.
For now, The New York Times (NYT) reported the situation as "out of control," stating, "Trees along the roadsides are burning like giant torches. Fire hydrants used by firefighters to extinguish the fires have almost run dry, and helicopters spraying water from the air have had their operations suspended due to the gusts." Currently, fire authorities are concerned not only about rescue personnel but also about shortages in water supply for firefighting. Anthony Marron, Chief of the LA County Fire Department, said, "We were prepared for one or two large wildfires, but not for four," appealing for more firefighting personnel and resources.
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency. President Joe Biden announced in a statement that "the federal government has provided support necessary for containment" and "the administration will do everything needed to support the response." President-elect Donald Trump pointed to Governor Newsom's environmental policies as the cause of the fires.
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