Firefighters in Los Angeles are working hard to stop two huge wildfires that have been burning for over a week. These fires have spread across a huge area, almost as big as Washington, D.C., and are getting worse because of strong desert winds and dry land.
About 8,500 brave firefighters from seven states and two countries have been trying to keep the fires from getting bigger. They use planes to drop water and fire retardant on the hills and work with tools and hoses on the ground. But high winds often ground the planes, making their job harder.
The fires, called the Palisades and Eaton fires, have burned thousands of acres of land. The firefighters are getting a little more control, but there’s still a long way to go. Another fire, called the Hurst fire, is almost under control, and a new fire started in Ventura County.
Sadly, 24 people have died, and about 12,000 homes have been destroyed or badly damaged. Entire neighborhoods are gone, and only ashes and chimney remains are left behind.
The hot and dry weather has made things worse. There hasn’t been much rain in Southern California for months, and the Santa Ana winds have been so strong that they send burning pieces of fire flying into other areas.
Even though some people have been allowed to return home, 88,000 are still under evacuation orders. Many people have lost everything and are living with friends or family.
The cost of the damage is enormous. California Governor Gavin Newsom says this could be the worst disaster in U.S. history, and the damage could be up to $150 billion.
As for recovery, there’s a big debate in Washington, D.C., about how to help the victims. Some lawmakers want to make sure the costs of the disaster aid are paid for without raising the budget deficit, which is causing tension in Congress.
It’s a tough situation for everyone, but the firefighters are still fighting hard to stop the fires and save as much as they can.
