Southern California is grappling with the devastating impact of wildfires that have wreaked havoc across the region, destroying over 12,000 structures and claiming 16 lives. As of today, five deaths are attributed to the Palisades fire and 11 to the Eaton fire. The fires, which are burning through significant parts of the state, have inflicted estimated damages and economic losses ranging between $135 billion and $150 billion.
The Palisades fire is particularly concerning as it burns in the canyon area near the UCLA campus and the J Paul Getty Museum. Within the past 24 hours, it has spread over an additional 1,000 acres, prompting fears that it may soon jump over Interstate 405 into densely populated areas such as the Hollywood Hills and San Fernando Valley. Meanwhile, Malibu has suffered significant losses, with one-third of its eastern edge consumed by the flames.
Firefighting efforts have intensified with assistance from crews deployed from Mexico, Canada, and Texas. Despite these efforts, challenges persist. The National Weather Service has issued a warning about worsening Santa Ana winds expected to intensify on Saturday night into Sunday morning, which could exacerbate the already precarious situation.
In response to misinformation circulating about water supply challenges, the Los Angeles Department of Public Works released a statement to clarify the situation. However, LA Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley confirmed that her firefighters faced difficulties when hydrants ran dry in certain parts of the Palisades on Wednesday morning.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a stern warning against price gouging, looting, or scamming in response to the fires.
"It’s called price gouging. It is illegal. You cannot do it. It is a crime punishable by up to a year in jail and fines," Bonta stated.
He further elaborated on the issue, noting,
"We’ve seen businesses and landlords … jack up the price."
Bonta emphasized the importance of California law in safeguarding those affected by this tragedy.
"This is California law and it’s in place to protect those suffering from a tragedy."
Unfortunately, stories of price manipulation are emerging amidst the chaos. Maya Lieberman recounted her experience with exorbitant rental prices:
"We put in an application at a house … that was listed at $17,000 a month, and they told us if we didn’t pay $30,000, we weren’t going to get it. They told me they have people ready to offer more and pay cash. It’s absolutely insane."
The LA County Sheriff, Robert Luna, expressed concern that the death toll could rise as search dogs are deployed to devastated areas. Meanwhile, Southern California Edison CEO Steven Powell announced that approximately 50,000 customers remain without power, a significant improvement from over half a million just days ago.
On a federal level, outgoing US President Joe Biden has approved a disaster declaration for Southern California. This declaration commits the federal government to cover all fire management and debris removal costs for six months. In light of this support, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger extended an invitation to President-elect Joe Biden.
"By accepting this invitation, Mr President-elect, you will join us in supporting our citizenry and thanking our heroic first responders, who have risked their own lives to save others," stated Barger.
She further added,
"We would also ask you, as our president, to stand with the people of Los Angeles County as we set our course to rebuild. Your presence would be deeply felt and appreciated."
County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath shared her reflections on the ongoing crisis:
"We had another night of unimaginable terror and heartbreak, and even more Angelenos evacuated due to the north-east expansion of the Palisades fire."