Winds in Los Angeles that had fueled wildfires are expected to pick up again on Wednesday, following the confirmation of a 25th death from the significant week-long outbreak. Forecasters have identified an area of "extreme fire danger" to the northwest of the city center. Wind speeds could reach 70mph (113km/h) in some mountainous regions, nearly hurricane-force if sustained. The increase in speeds threatens to spread the remaining four blazes, which firefighters had been making progress on during calmer days. Wind speeds have been gradually increasing in parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties and are forecasted to peak on Wednesday by the National Weather Service.
Compared to last week, winds are described as "weaker but still strong" by the NWS. Officials emphasize the urgent need for rain to aid firefighters. The Los Angeles County Fire Chief highlighted the critical fire threat in the region due to anticipated winds, low humidity, and dry conditions. Areas like Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks in the northwest of Los Angeles are particularly perilous. Conditions are expected to improve from Thursday into Friday, with no rain in the forecast for the next week. The Santa Ana winds, responsible for exacerbating the blazes, could return from Sunday.
The fire chief of Pasadena stressed the importance of precipitation in a region that hasn't seen significant rain in over 250 days. Firefighters remain vigilant in safeguarding containment lines and structures. The record temperatures, lower humidity, and stronger winds in fire-affected areas have exacerbated the situation. The 25th death from the fires has been confirmed by the LA County Medical Examiner's Office, with thirteen individuals still missing.
Most fatalities occurred in the Eaton Fire, burning over 14,000 acres to the north of the city, now 35% contained. The Palisades Fire to the west has consumed more than 23,000 acres with 18% containment, alongside two smaller fires. Some Eaton Fire victims have returned home, but repopulation of the Palisades area remains uncertain. Numerous individuals are under evacuation orders, thousands of homes have been destroyed, making it one of America's most costly natural disasters.
Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles termed the scenes as "unimaginable," pledging quick rebuilding efforts. The LA County supervisor announced measures to prevent price-gouging by landlords during the crisis, emphasizing support for affected locals.