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Devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles have claimed 10 lives and destroyed nearly 10,000 structures, with five separate blazes continuing to burn as strong desert winds intensify the crisis. Initial assessments indicate the catastrophic fires have already caused damages and economic losses ranging from $135-$150 billion.
According to the medical examiner’s office, which reported the death toll at 9 p.m. PST Thursday, the identification process for victims could extend for weeks due to limited access to affected areas because of ongoing fires.
“The Department of Medical Examiner understands how important it is to identify those lost in the wildfires and is working diligently, while following safety protocols, to provide the information to the next of kin as soon as reasonably possible,” the office stated.
The casualty count increased from five earlier in the day, while official government assessments of structural damage and associated costs are still pending.
AccuWeather’s latest analysis, released Thursday, projects the economic impact and damage costs will reach between $135-$150 billion.
The crisis has forced more than 180,000 residents to evacuate, with additional warning zones established near the fire-affected areas.
The Palisades Fire, situated between Santa Monica and Malibu, and the Eaton Fire near Pasadena have emerged as Los Angeles’s most destructive wildfires in recorded history, according to Reuters. The combined devastation spans over 34,000 acres – approximately 53 square miles – reducing numerous neighborhoods to rubble.
Investigators are still working to determine the origin of all five fires.
Law enforcement has already apprehended 20 looters, according to UPI, prompting officials to request National Guard assistance for additional security.
“We must stand up against opportunistic people who want to prey on these victims. Los Angeles County will not stand by and allow an already traumatic experience to be further compounded,” Board of Supervisors Chair Supervisor Kathryn Barger declared.
In response to the emergency, Los Angeles Unified Schools and administrative offices have announced closure for Friday.
