California wildfires updates: At least 24 people have lost their lives to the wildfires that have ripped through Los Angeles city in California, with the toll expected to mount amid the battle with the blaze. Firefighters have braced for high winds, as the Santa Ana winds are expected to return and further fuel the two monstrous wildfires that have already turned entire neighbourhoods to ashes. Meanwhile, data from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection showed that 40, acres of land have been burned in the blazes so far, and more than 12, structures have been destroyed across Los Angeles.
Fresh analysis suggests shocking New Year's eve connection US President-elect Donald Trump, set to take charge at the Oval Office on January 20, is likely to visit the blaze-torn city late next week to take a survey of the damage caused by the wind-whipped wildfires and assess emergency needs, Reuters reported citing a source.
The timing and other details are yet to be finalised. According to CAL Fire data, the Palisades Fire has destroyed more than 23, acres of land and only 14 per cent of the blaze has been contained so far. Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire burnt down over 14, acres of land, with 33 per cent of the blaze under control. Lastly, the Hurst Fire, spread across nearly acres of land, has been largely contained 95 per cent. Outgoing president Joe Biden conveyed condolences for the lost lives and announced additional disaster assistance for California, covering costs for removal of the fire debris and emergency protective measures.
However, he said the Congress "needs to step up" and provide funding as it will cost tens of billions of dollars to get the LA city fully back on its feet.
A firefighting plane, which was damaged due to collision with an unauthorised drone during an operation over the Palisades Fire last week, has been repaired, said LA County fire chief Anthony Marrone. He noted that the plane is expected to return to work on Tuesday amid the continued battle against the raging fires. The investigating agency said the drone was flying in violation of the temporary flight restrictions from the Federal Aviation Administration.
