The largest Los Angeles wildfire spread into new neighbourhoods on Saturday, prompting fresh evacuations and dashing hopes of containment.
At least 11 people have died since Tuesday as multiple fires devastated residential areas, destroying thousands of homes. US President Joe Biden compared the destruction to a “war scene.”
Despite intense firefighting efforts, the Palisades fire expanded toward the east, threatening affluent neighbourhoods and landmarks like the Getty Center art museum.
Strong winds were forecast to return Saturday, increasing the risk of fresh blazes as embers land on dry vegetation.
Residents voiced anger over the authorities’ response. Nicole Perri, whose Pacific Palisades home was destroyed, said officials “completely let us down.” James Brown, a retired lawyer from Altadena, echoed her sentiments, stating, “They weren’t prepared at all.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced an independent review, calling the lack of water supply during the initial response “deeply troubling.”
A sunset-to-sunrise curfew was imposed in evacuated areas amid growing reports of looting, with two dozen arrests and National Guard deployment.
The fires have consumed over 37,000 acres, destroying approximately 12,000 buildings. The death toll, currently at 11, is expected to rise.
Biden criticised misinformation surrounding the disaster, while Newsom invited incoming president Donald Trump to survey the damage together.
Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley highlighted funding cuts and staff shortages as key challenges. Scientists continue to warn that climate change is worsening wildfire dynamics.
Emergency managers apologised after false evacuation alerts caused panic on Friday. The Palisades fire remains only 8% contained and continues to spread.