Fire crews have made further headway against the Los Angeles fires, but the most powerful winds will arrive in the early hours of this morning — with much of the area under red flag warnings.
As crews worked to contain the still-blazing Palisades and Eaton fires, a new blaze, the Auto Fire, broke out late Monday in Ventura County, part of an area under the highest fire threat as winds pick up.
As they sweep through hundreds of homes, they are finding victims’ bodies, with 24 confirmed dead and dozens missing. Here’s what we know about the victims.
Here’s where the fires stand:
Historic blazes: The Eaton and Palisades Fires are likely the second and fourth most destructive in California history. The total area burned by the Palisades, Eaton and Hurst fires is about 60 square miles, an area larger than Paris. Wildfires are fueled by a complex mix of factors, but scientists say the climate crisis is loading the dice in favor of more severe blazes.
Preparing for more fire: With winds expected to resurge before calming down later in the week, officials are urging residents who have not yet been affected to have an evacuation plan as they prepare for the heightened fire risk.
Possible power cuts: The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power may deliberately cut power in the coming days as strong winds are expected to arrive this morning, raising the risk of fires starting and spreading.
Fire investigation: A law enforcement source told CNN there is no leading theory at this time as to the cause of the Palisades fire. The source said they are also aware of the video AP obtained that was taken by what may be some of the first witnesses of the start of the Palisades Fire. Officials said Monday they were investigating an electrical transmission tower in Eaton Canyon.
Lawsuit filed: Southern California Edison, the electrical utility for LA, has been sued for its alleged role in starting the Eaton Fire. SCE has denied the allegation and said it found “no interruptions or operational/electrical anomalies” just before or after the fire.
Evacuation orders: More than 92,000 people are still under evacuation orders — lower than the previous days, but authorities warn it is still not safe for many to return to their homes.
Preparing for recovery: Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued an executive order to speed up rebuild efforts after the wildfires.
