Los Angeles Fire Update: Death Toll Reaches 5 As Wildfires Burns Down More Than 10,000 Acres Of Land

A series of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have claimed at least five lives, with more than 10,000 acres of land consumed by the flames. The death toll is expected to rise as the fires continue to ravage entire neighborhoods, destroying homes and cars within minutes, while stretching firefighting efforts and water supplies to their limits.

Federal Assistance for California Fire Victims

In response to the escalating crisis, the White House has announced that President Joe Biden has approved a Major Disaster declaration for California. This declaration allows affected communities and survivors to access immediate funds and resources to support their recovery efforts.

The statement also emphasized President Biden’s focus on mobilizing life-saving and life-sustaining resources across the region. Additionally, the Department of Defense has been directed to provide more firefighting personnel and aerial support to help combat the blazes.

Several fires are burning across the Los Angeles area, including the Hollywood Hills and areas stretching inland to Pasadena, which is known for hosting the Rose Parade.

Thousands of firefighters are battling the flames, and the Los Angeles Fire Department has issued a call for off-duty firefighters to assist in the efforts. In particular, the Palisades area, home to many Hollywood celebrities, has been hit hard, with over 15,000 acres of land affected by the fire

Is This The Worst Wildfire in LA History?

This current wildfire is being described as the deadliest in Los Angeles history, with tens of thousands of residents ordered to evacuate their homes as the fires move toward highly populated and affluent areas, including neighborhoods that house the rich and famous.

Notable Hollywood figures such as Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, and James Woods were among those who had to flee the flames.

While officials have not yet provided an estimate of the number of structures destroyed or damaged, about 30,000 residents are under evacuation orders, and more than 13,000 structures are at risk, according to reports.

The Pacific Palisades neighborhood, in particular, has seen significant damage and remains under threat as the fires continue to spread.

Delays and Cancellations in Hollywood Events

In the wake of the wildfires, several major Hollywood events have been postponed or canceled. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has delayed the Oscar nominations by two days, now scheduled for January 19, to accommodate members who have been affected by the fires.

Furthermore, the Critics Choice Awards, which were set to take place this weekend, have been postponed. This annual event, which honors the best in film and television, is typically attended by A-list celebrities.

Additionally, the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park has been closed due to smoky and windy conditions caused by the fires.

The wildfires in Los Angeles continue to spread rapidly, causing widespread destruction and forcing thousands to evacuate. With the combined efforts of local, state, and federal agencies, the region is working tirelessly to contain the fires and support affected communities.

However, the true extent of the damage and the toll on residents and infrastructure is still unfolding.