Death Toll from Los Angeles Wildfires Rises to 29

Los Angeles, CA — The death toll from the devastating wildfires that swept through the Los Angeles area this month has risen to 29, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. Offic

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7 amid extreme winds, has decimated 6,837 homes and other structures, burning a total of 23,448 acres. Fire officials reported Monday that damage assessment teams are close to completing their inspections. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) confirmed that containment of the blaze had reached 95% by Monday evening.

Authorities have begun allowing residents to return to some areas previously under mandatory evacuation orders, marking a small step toward recovery.

Meanwhile, another massive wildfire, the Eaton Fire, also ignited on January 7 in Los Angeles County, causing widespread destruction. The blaze severely impacted the community of Altadena and spread to homes in Pasadena and Sierra Madre. Officials reported that the Eaton Fire has destroyed 9,418 homes and structures, burning a total of 14,021 acres. As of Monday, the fire was 98% contained, according to an interagency fire information center that includes Cal Fire and the U.S. Forest Service.

Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley described the fires as among the most catastrophic disasters in the city's history. The infernos were fueled by hurricane-force Santa Ana winds, which not only intensified the flames but also grounded aerial firefighting efforts.

Investigations into the causes of both wildfires are still ongoing as officials work to determine what sparked the deadly blazes.