Los Angeles and Ventura County are battling at least six wildfires, with five of them still completely uncontained, officials report. Among the blazes is the Sunset Fire, which erupted in the Hollywood Hills, prompting mandatory evacuations in neighborhoods that include celebrity residences.
The most devastating is the Palisades Fire, which began on Tuesday and has since become the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles history. Over 100,000 residents have been forced to flee their homes due to the Eaton Fire, with an additional 37,000 displaced by the growing Palisades inferno.
Firefighters face significant challenges, including a water shortage that has forced them to use water from swimming pools and ponds to combat the blazes. Despite these efforts, containment remains elusive for most of the fires.
Meanwhile, LA Mayor Karen Bass has come under fire for her absence during the crisis, as she was on an African delegation trip when the wildfires broke out. Critics have also highlighted her decision to cut over $17 million from the fire department’s budget last summer, sparking debates over the city’s preparedness.
As the fires rage on, officials are urging residents to heed evacuation orders and prioritize safety as firefighting efforts continue under strained resources.
