Wildfires rage in Los Angeles; thousands forced to flee
Three areas of Los Angeles resemble scenes from hell, as the region battles massive wildfires that are "spreading quickly," according to a California firefighter interviewed by NBC. Nearly 100,000 people have been placed under evacuation orders.
Since Tuesday, three wildfires have been raging in the Los Angeles area, expanding at an alarming rate. A California firefighter stressed the extreme seriousness of the situation in a conversation with NBC.
"Get in your vehicle and leave the area as soon as possible," advised firefighter Robert Foxworthy to residents. "Speaking to NBC's TODAY show this morning, Foxworthy said the 'incredibly' fast-moving fire was unpredictable," reported NBC.
The fires have impacted areas including the celebrity neighborhood of Pacific Palisades and the regions around Sylmar and Altadena. Sheriece Wallace, a resident of Los Angeles, recounted how she unexpectedly learned about the danger when a helicopter dropped water over her home. "I was like, 'it’s raining,'" Wallace said. "No, it’s not raining. Your neighborhood is on fire. You need to get out," her sister instructed.
Fires in California
The fires are fueled by strong winds, which further complicates the efforts of firefighters. Mayor Karen Bass used social media to warn about the worsening weather conditions. The wind is picking up, she stated. Ariel Cohen, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, described the situation as one of the worst ever seen in this region.
At least 1,400 firefighters are involved in the firefighting operation. California Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the scale of their involvement. The California Firefighters Association has urged people to avoid areas engulfed by fire, emphasizing the danger associated with inhaling toxic smoke.
The fires have caused power outages affecting nearly 300,000 customers in Southern California. Classes at 19 schools were canceled. The state attorney's office reminded the public that price gouging during a state of emergency is a crime, punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 or a year in jail.
Earlier, U.S. President Joe Biden addressed the issue of the fires, emphasizing that the authorities are doing everything in their power to manage the threat. "I urge the residents of the Pacific Palisades and the surrounding areas of Los Angeles to stay vigilant and listen to local officials," he announced.
