Devastating fires continue to ravage the Greater Los Angeles area, claiming at least 16 lives and causing extensive damage to around 12,000 structures, particularly in Pacific Palisades. Governor Gavin Newsom warns that the destruction could surpass previous U.S. natural disasters, with estimated costs reaching up to $150 billion. As strong winds threaten further devastation, over 300,000 residents have been forced to evacuate. Political criticism arises, particularly aimed at California’s leadership, amidst ongoing safety concerns for affected communities.
Devastating Fires in Greater Los Angeles
The fires raging through the Greater Los Angeles area have yet to be extinguished, and California’s governor has already indicated that the destruction may exceed all previous natural disasters in the United States. New wind patterns could potentially exacerbate the current situation.
Tragically, at least 16 lives have been lost in these catastrophic fires, with many more individuals still unaccounted for. The latest updates from the fire department reveal that approximately 12,000 buildings have suffered damage or complete destruction. The Pacific Palisades neighborhood has been particularly hard hit, with over 9,500 hectares of land devastated.
Unprecedented Scale of Destruction
According to California Governor Gavin Newsom, the scale of destruction from the six significant fires may set a record for natural disasters in the country, particularly concerning costs and overall impact. “We may be facing the worst natural disaster in history,” he stated during an interview with NBC.
The fires have forced over 300,000 residents to evacuate their homes, leading to overwhelming consequences. While previous disasters have claimed more lives, the economic toll in Los Angeles is staggering. AccuWeather has estimated the damage costs to range between $135 to $150 billion, with projections indicating that this figure could rise significantly as the fires continue. In comparison, Hurricane Helene’s estimated damages last year ranged from $225 to $250 billion, with AccuWeather’s evaluations factoring in various elements such as damage to properties, businesses, infrastructure, healthcare costs, and disruptions to the supply chain.
Additionally, the insurance firm Aon and the rating agency Moody’s announced that the fires are projected to result in higher costs than any previous natural disaster recorded in the U.S. Moody’s attributed this assessment to the destruction of densely populated residential zones, which often contain high-value properties.
‘Meteorologists are predicting further strong gusts,’ reported Gudrun Engel from ARD Washington, speaking from Malibu regarding the ongoing fires.
Threatening Winds and Public Safety
The danger is far from over. Even though the fire department has managed to halt the spread of the flames in the Pacific Palisades area to the east, communities in the San Fernando Valley, located about 30 kilometers northwest of downtown Los Angeles, remain at risk due to powerful winds.
Although the fierce Santa Ana winds have lessened recently, the National Weather Service has issued warnings for stronger gusts that could reach speeds of up to 110 kilometers per hour early next week, with the most intense winds anticipated on Tuesday. Relief is not expected until at least mid-week.
Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley has advised residents against returning to burned neighborhoods to assess their properties, as active fires continue to pose significant dangers. ‘There are still fires burning in the Palisades area, making it extremely perilous for the public,’ she cautioned.
Current conditions include a lack of electricity and water, broken gas lines, and unstable structures. Emergency teams are working diligently to ensure the safe return of residents.
An online database has been established to help residents verify the status of their homes. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for approximately 105,000 individuals in Los Angeles County, with an additional 87,000 under evacuation warnings.
As the death toll rises to 16, criticism of the authorities continues to grow.
Political Responses to the Crisis
Former President Donald Trump has criticized local and state officials for their handling of the fire situation, expressing his frustration on his social media platform. ‘The fires in L.A. are still raging. The incompetent politicians have no idea how to put them out. Thousands of magnificent homes are gone, and many more will soon be lost,’ he wrote.
Trump has specifically targeted California’s Democratic governor, blaming his policies for the severity of the fires. In response, Governor Newsom stated that he is accustomed to Trump’s criticisms, which he characterizes as typical behavior towards officials he opposes.
This ongoing situation was reported by tagesschau on January 12, 2025, at 8:00 PM.