LA Wildfires: Day 11 Update – What Investigations Reveal and the Latest on Containment Efforts
With improved conditions aiding firefighting efforts, officials warn of the return of dangerous winds next week.
After nearly two weeks of devastating wildfires across Los Angeles, firefighters are making progress as weather conditions temporarily improve. The fierce Santa Ana Winds, which contributed to the rapid spread of the fires, have eased for now, but experts warn that a new round of these dangerous winds is expected early next week.
As of Thursday evening, the death toll has risen to 27, with 31 others still missing, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. Authorities caution that the toll may increase further as search and rescue operations continue. Investigations have revealed that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has received over 150 tips regarding the possible cause of the Palisades Fire.
Latest Developments on the Ground
Casualties and Missing Persons:
The fires have claimed the lives of at least 27 individuals, with 31 still missing. Over 82,000 people remain under mandatory evacuation orders, while another 90,000 are on evacuation warnings. Thousands of homes and businesses have been destroyed, and authorities predict it could take months to clear the damage.
The death toll is divided among two major blazes: the Palisades Fire, which accounted for 10 fatalities, and the Eaton Fire, which claimed 17 lives.
Ongoing Fires:
Palisades Fire: This fire has scorched nearly 9,600 hectares (23,713 acres) in the Pacific Palisades area and is 27% contained. Thankfully, no significant growth has been reported in the past 72 hours.
Eaton Fire: Burning more than 5,700 hectares (14,117 acres), this fire is 55% contained, an improvement of 10% in just one day. Pasadena has declared a local public health emergency due to the toxic ash and debris from the fire.
Auto Fire: This blaze in Ventura County is 85% contained, and firefighters have stopped its progress, limiting it to just 25 hectares (61 acres).
Containment of Smaller Fires:
Hurst Fire: Now fully contained, this fire burned 324 hectares (800 acres) in the San Fernando Valley.
Little Mountain Fire: A suspect has been arrested in connection with this fire, which scorched 14 hectares (34 acres) in San Bernardino. The fire has been fully contained.
What to Expect Moving Forward
The improved weather conditions are providing much-needed relief to firefighting crews. The National Weather Service forecasts that the Santa Ana winds will subside over the weekend, bringing moisture from the Pacific Ocean to help with containment efforts. Firefighters are using this brief break to strengthen containment lines, but authorities caution that the situation remains volatile.
Meteorologists predict that strong winds may return next week, potentially reigniting the fires or exacerbating current conditions. Rich Thompson, an incident meteorologist for the Palisades Fire, warned that critical fire conditions are likely to develop soon.
Investigating the Cause of the Fires
Utility Equipment Under Scrutiny:
Southern California Edison (SCE), the area's main utility provider, is facing scrutiny over its role in possibly sparking the Eaton Fire. At least four lawsuits have been filed alleging that SCE's equipment caused the blaze. One lawsuit, filed by Altadena resident Jeremy Gursey, claims that a fire started beneath transmission lines in Eaton Canyon. However, the utility has defended its actions, stating that wind speeds were below the threshold needed to shut down transmission lines.
Potential Link to New Year's Day Fire:
In the Pacific Palisades, concerns have arisen that the recent fire may be linked to a smaller blaze ignited by fireworks on New Year’s Day. The two fires occurred in close proximity and at a similar time, raising questions about whether the earlier blaze could have rekindled due to strong winds. However, Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley stated that there is currently no evidence to suggest a connection between the two incidents.
Formation of a Task Force:
Given the complex nature of the investigations, local and federal law enforcement agencies have formed the Joint Regional Fire Crimes Task Force. This team will focus on investigating the origins of the fires, supporting prosecution efforts, and addressing related crimes such as arson, looting, illegal drone activity, and fraud targeting disaster victims.
As the fires continue to devastate Los Angeles, the community remains on edge, hoping that the improving weather conditions will aid firefighters in containing the remaining blazes before the return of dangerous winds.