The death toll from the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires in Los Angeles County, California, has risen to 24, with the fires still less than 30% contained, officials reported.

The Los Angeles County medical examiner released details of the fatalities, confirming eight deaths from the Palisades fire zone and 16 from the Eaton fire zone.

As the region braces for more challenging weather, officials warned that strengthening Santa Ana winds could exacerbate the situation, potentially pushing the fires into new areas. According to recent assessments, these blazes have destroyed over 1,800 structures and damaged up to 10,000 others.

Currently, three wildfires continue to burn within Los Angeles County, with over 150,000 individuals still under evacuation warnings. The Palisades fire alone has scorched nearly 24,000 acres, and there's a risk it could be driven back towards the coast by changing wind patterns.

During a Sunday afternoon press conference, authorities stated that more than 4,700 personnel are actively engaged in firefighting efforts. LA County Fire Department Battalion Chief Christian Litz described the Palisades fire as having subdued flame activity but noted the persistent heat along its edges, necessitating ongoing vigilance to prevent further spread.

Litz elaborated on the extensive use of aerial resources, "We have airplanes, helicopters, even drones. We’re dropping retardant, we’re dropping water everywhere we can to secure that edge."

Despite expectations that high winds might ground firefighting aircraft, operations continued with retardant and water drops throughout the day. Rich Thompson from the National Weather Service forecasted moderate to strong Santa Ana winds through Wednesday, with gusts potentially reaching 35 to 55 mph, conditions conducive to further fire spread.

LA Fire Chief Kristin Crowley highlighted the urgency of the situation with the approaching wind event and encouraged residents to stay informed via official channels and be ready to evacuate promptly. "Follow all evacuation warnings and orders without delay, and stay off the roadways and any impacted areas," she urged.

Sheriff Robert Luna acknowledged the community's desire to return home but warned of the extensive damage, likening some areas to bomb sites. Search efforts involving cadaver dogs are ongoing, as Luna expressed pessimism about further discoveries.

Governor Gavin Newsom labeled these fires as potentially the worst natural disaster in US history due to their economic impact and scale, announcing an executive order to expedite disaster relief. More than 12,300 homes and businesses have been obliterated, displacing over 200,000 people.

This ongoing crisis continues to test the resilience of Los Angeles County, with officials and first responders working tirelessly to manage and mitigate the fires' devastating effects. (ILKHA)