A devastating wildfire in Los Angeles has expanded to threaten exclusive neighborhoods, leaving a death toll of at least 16 people dead. The Palisades fire, which has scorched nearly 23,000 acres, is now menacing Brentwood, with winds expected to pick up again overnight. Firefighters are making an all-out assault to contain the blaze, but officials have been criticized for not having enough resources to combat the fires.
The National Weather Service warned that gusty Santa Ana winds will increase the risk of the fire spreading. The Getty Center, a hilltop museum with over 125,000 artworks, is under evacuation orders due to the nearby flames. Neighboring states and federal agencies have sent resources to California to help combat the blazes.
Fire officials say the shortage of water at hydrants has made firefighting efforts more challenging. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass hinted at tensions with Fire Chief Kristin Crowley over budget cuts and staffing issues, which have resulted in more than 100 fire apparatuses being out of service.
A curfew is being enforced in evacuated areas to prevent looting, and over 70,000 people have signed a petition demanding the mayor’s resignation. The death toll is expected to rise as house-to-house searches are conducted, with some residents reporting that up to 60% of homes in their neighborhood were destroyed by the fire.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c897l7wyzj5o