The intense winds fueling the devastating Los Angeles fires are expected to subside, providing firefighters a better chance to combat wildfires that have raged for over a week. On Thursday, the National Weather Service declared that the “nine-day wind siege has finally ended,” forecasting a “significant cooling trend” and increased humidity through the weekend. However, they caution that high winds might return early next week. However, some of the largest fires remain largely uncontained as of publication.
Currently, the Palisades Fire, having scorched 23,700 acres, is 21 percent contained, while the Eaton Fire, which has burned 14,100 acres, stands at 45 percent containment. Despite warnings of a “particularly dangerous situation” due to winds on Wednesday, firefighters managed to keep the fires from expanding further.
The fires have claimed at least 25 lives and destroyed 12,000 structures, with damages estimated at $250 billion, marking it as the costliest fire in U.S. history. Over 80,000 individuals remain under evacuation orders, eager to return home, but officials stress patience as they continue to inspect areas and clear hazardous debris. According to the Los Angeles Times, inspections are only halfway complete, with no clear timeline for completion.
Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Captain Erik Scott emphasized the need for “realistic expectations” regarding when residents can return, as the damage assessment is still ongoing. Mayor Karen Bass, addressing the displaced, committed to streamlining the rebuilding process, stating, “If your property burned down and you want to rebuild it exactly as it was before, then you shouldn’t have to go through an elaborate, time-consuming permitting process.” She has been heavily criticized for cutting fire budgets and diverting resources to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
The California National Guard is on the ground, trying to ensure that evacuated neighborhoods remain secure amid dozens of looting arrests.
