Wildfires Rage Across Los Angeles, Death Toll Climbs to 10

Firefighting efforts continued through the night, with helicopters dropping water on the flames during a brief lull in the winds. These wildfires have charred tens of thousands of acres of land, prompting the evacuation of nearly 180,000 people.
President Joe Biden addressed the devastation on Thursday, promising federal aid and additional funding to support California’s emergency response. In a briefing, Biden described the fires as "the worst fires to ever hit Los Angeles," pledging funds to cover up to 180 days of temporary shelter, hazardous material removal, first responder expenses, and other disaster response efforts.
Vice President Kamala Harris, a former U.S. senator for California, also weighed in, calling the situation "apocalyptic" and warning of long-term repercussions. Harris, whose home is in an evacuation zone, said it was still unclear whether her residence had been affected.
The fires, including the Palisades and Eaton fires, have devastated large portions of the city. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass described the situation as "absolutely unprecedented," echoing concerns from officials about the scale and destruction of the disaster.
Fire Chief Kristin Crowley said that calmer winds had allowed firefighters to increase containment efforts and resume air operations. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection is actively fighting five major fires in the area, with the Palisades and Eaton fires being the most destructive. Additionally, a sixth fire, the Kenneth Fire near Woodland Hills, was reported Thursday.
As the region grapples with this disaster, criminal activity has emerged as a concern. Authorities have arrested at least 20 people for looting in the wake of the fires. Los Angeles Supervisor Kathryn Barger condemned these actions, stating, "Shame on those who are preying on our residents during this time of crisis," and pledged to hold those responsible accountable.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed that nearly 180,000 residents have already been evacuated, and another 200,000 are under evacuation orders. Chief Crowley described the Palisades fire as "one of the most destructive natural disasters in the history of Los Angeles," with more than 5,000 homes and structures lost in the area.
As the fight to control the fires continues, officials remain on high alert, fearing further damage as high winds are expected to return.