Los Angeles: The largest of four active wildfires in Los Angeles County continued its relentless advance on Saturday, threatening a major Southern California artery as it spread northeast. Authorities warned of escalating fire weather conditions over the weekend.
The Palisades Fire, the most destructive in Los Angeles history, expanded by approximately 1,000 acres on Saturday, engulfing 23,654 acres with only 11% containment. Flames encroached on Encino and Brentwood, prompting mandatory evacuations west of the 405 freeway.
As of Saturday afternoon, the wildfires have claimed at least 13 lives, fueled by powerful winds and parched vegetation. Over 153,000 residents in Los Angeles County were under evacuation orders, with 57,000 structures at risk, according to Sheriff Robert Luna. Another 166,000 people remain under evacuation warnings, ready to leave their homes at a moment’s notice.
Fire Chief Anthony Marrone emphasized the heightened risk due to dry air and strong winds, which have turned fires into devastating infernos. Across the county, the fires have consumed approximately 38,000 acres, destroyed more than 5,000 structures—including 426 homes—and threatened landmarks like the Getty Center.
The U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives announced its leadership in investigating the origins of the Palisades Fire. Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire has ravaged 14,117 acres in the northeast, destroying or damaging over 7,000 structures in Altadena and Pasadena.
Firefighters achieved 100% containment of the Archer and Lidia Fires, but new threats, such as the Hurst Fire, continue to test their efforts. Cal Fire Battalion Chief David Acuña described the unpredictable nature of the situation, saying, "We can’t tell where the fire will be in 30 minutes."
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