The death toll from the devastating fires in Los Angeles has tragically risen to 24. Residents in the area have been given alarming warnings about the intense weather conditions expected in the coming days.
Reports from local media describe the possibility of these fierce fires continuing for another three days, posing a significant threat to the region.
Meteorologists have alerted residents that dangerous winds reaching speeds of up to 70mph could pick up later on Sunday.
These winds are expected to last until Wednesday, increasing the likelihood of the fires spreading even further across southern California.
“The outlook is quite concerning,” stated chief meteorologist, Rose Schoenfield.
The severe weather conditions make it difficult for residents to return home to assess the damage. This also hinders the efforts of first responders who are tirelessly working to navigate through ash and debris. Authorities are working hard to find survivors and account for those missing.
Four separate fires have already scorched over 40,000 acres, ravaging some of LA’s wealthiest areas and affecting renowned celebrity homes and popular upscale eateries.
In total, 12,300 structures have been entirely destroyed. By Sunday afternoon, the LA medical examiner confirmed that 24 people had lost their lives due to the fires.
Nervous residents who were evacuated are anxiously waiting to see if their homes have survived the blazes. With several people still unaccounted for, some have turned to cadaver dogs to locate any human remains. The local sheriff has warned that the casualty numbers may continue to increase.