Fire Crews Battle Los Angeles Wildfires as Death Toll Rises to 24

Los Angeles is reeling under relentless wildfires that have killed at least 24 people and destroyed more than 12,000 structures over six days. The Palisades and Eaton fires have consumed vast stretches of land, forcing over 100,000 people to evacuate while 16 remain missing. Firefighters are racing against time to control the blazes ahead of the return of strong Santa Ana winds forecasted for Sunday night.

California Governor Gavin Newsom called the disaster “the worst in U.S. history” in terms of costs, with damages estimated between $135 billion to $150 billion. The federal government has declared a major disaster, unlocking emergency aid for affected residents.

While efforts to contain the fires continue, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump criticized local officials on social media, blaming them for mismanagement. Trump’s remarks have sparked backlash, with experts calling for unity and action to address the crisis.