More than 2,000 homes, businesses, and other buildings have been damaged or destroyed, with at least five people confirmed dead, as multiple wildfires continue to scorch communities across California’s Los Angeles County.

The Eaton fire, which erupted Tuesday night in Altadena, has been particularly lethal, with the five fatalities discovered within structures in the area. The fire has consumed over 10,600 acres, fueled by wind gusts reaching 99 mph. LA County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone noted at a Wednesday evening press conference that the cause of death for these victims remains undetermined, and specialized K-9 units are being deployed to ensure no other individuals are missing in the fire's path.

In Pacific Palisades, the Palisades fire has scorched over 15,800 acres, devastating multimillion-dollar homes along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. Although there have been no fatalities reported from this fire, significant injuries have been documented among residents who failed to evacuate and the firefighters on the line.

The day saw the onset of the Sunset fire in Hollywood Hills, leading to immediate evacuations around Runyon Canyon. Meanwhile, the Hurst fire in Sylmar has burned 700 acres, contributing to the already stretched firefighting resources. All fires remain uncontained, with officials describing the situation as "unprecedented."

Approximately 2,500 firefighters are battling the blazes, facing challenges from high winds, dry conditions, and low humidity. Fire engines were reported to be scarce in some areas like Altadena, where residents took matters into their own hands with garden hoses. The Los Angeles Fire Department acknowledged being overwhelmed, with Chief Kristin Crowley stating, “These fires are stretching the capacity of emergency services to the maximum limits.”

Sheriff Robert Luna reported that about 70,000 residents are under evacuation orders or warnings due to the Eaton fire, and another 60,000 for the Palisades fire. Three individuals were arrested on suspicion of looting in the evacuation zones. A red flag warning remains in effect, with forecasters warning of continued severe wind conditions.

President Biden and Governor Newsom have mobilized federal and state resources, including National Guard units and additional firefighting equipment, to combat the fires. Biden emphasized during a Santa Monica briefing that the federal government will support the region for as long as necessary.

The dry winter has extended the fire season, with Los Angeles experiencing significantly less rain than average. Ariel Cohen from the National Weather Service highlighted that the winds are among the most severe in recent memory, describing the situation as "apocalyptic" and "catastrophic."

Residents like Bill Stange of Pacific Palisades are left in limbo, with homes destroyed and futures uncertain. The community is bracing for more as the weather service warns of continued dangerous conditions. (ILKHA)