Los Angeles firefighters make progress amid deadly wildfires
Firefighters have partially gained control over two large forest fires in Los Angeles. The Palisades and Eaton fires have been partially extinguished with support from neighbouring states, the federal government, and Canada.
Firefighters in Los Angeles have recorded their first successes in fighting the blaze. The Palisades fire is 8% contained, while Eaton is 3% contained.
Hundreds of firefighters were involved in the operation, battling the blaze both from the ground and from the air.
California received assistance from seven neighbouring states, the federal government, and Canada. The support included additional aerial teams and ground crews.
"Thanks to the increased number of resources assigned, the region is in a much better posture than we were earlier this week," said Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone.
Los Angeles battles the blaze. At least 11 people dead
The fires have devastated some districts of Los Angeles County, causing the death of at least 11 people and the destruction of 10,000 buildings.
Approximately 153,000 people have been evacuated, and another 167,000 received evacuation warnings. A curfew has been imposed in evacuation zones.
Forecasts for Los Angeles. High fire risk after the weekend
The National Weather Service predicts an improvement in conditions in the Los Angeles area over the weekend. Winds are expected to decrease, providing relief to firefighters battling the blaze.
Meteorologists, however, forecast that another Red Flag Warning will be issued on Monday. This indicates a very high risk of fires and alerts to extreme conditions favouring the spread of the blaze, including high temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity.
Private forecaster AccuWeather has estimated the damages and economic losses at £110–£123 billion. They predicted problems with reconstruction and a sharp rise in insurance costs for homeowners.
