Massive Wildfires Engulf California: Death Toll Rises To Ten, $52 Billion In Losses Estimated

California is reeling under the grip of catastrophic wildfires, with five major blazes—Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Lidia, and Sunset—engulfing Southern California.

Over 29,000 acres have been scorched, and nearly 293,000 residents are under evacuation orders as the fires, fuelled by hurricane-force winds and arid conditions, wreak havoc.

The death toll from wildfires in Los Angeles has risen to ten, Los Angeles County’s Medical Examiner said. All cases are currently pending identification and legal next of kin notification.

Governor Gavin Newsom declared the situation a "statewide catastrophe," estimating the economic toll at $52 billion.

“This is unlike anything we’ve ever seen. The ferocity of the winds, the dryness of the landscape, and the speed at which these fires are spreading—it’s overwhelming,” he said while surveying a destroyed school.

The Palisades Fire alone has engulfed 17,200 acres of land and over 1,000 structures, including homes in Pacific Palisades and three schools.

The Los Angeles Unified School District confirmed indefinite school closures, stating, “The confluence of wind, fire, and smoke has created an unprecedented challenge.”

The Eaton Fire has destroyed an additional 1,000 structures, making it one of the most destructive in Los Angeles County history. Water shortages are compounding firefighting challenges, with residents reporting depleted water tanks and contamination.

“It’s shameful,” said one evacuee. “We’re paying sky-high taxes, and yet we don’t even have enough water to fight fires.”

Hollywood has not been spared, with celebrities including Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, and Anthony Hopkins losing their homes. James Woods shared an image of his burning house, blaming “liberal idiots like Gavin Newsom” for the crisis.

The disaster has sparked political tensions. Former President Donald Trump criticised Newsom, calling him “Gavin Newscum” and accusing him of prioritising environmental policies over disaster preparedness.

Newsom responded, “This is not the time for politics. This is a time for action.”

Looting has added to the chaos, with two arrests reported. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna warned, “If you’re thinking of stealing from our community members already impacted by this disaster, you will be caught.”

With over 10,300 homes at risk California faces an uphill battle to recover from this unprecedented situation.

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