Wildfires fueled by hurricane-force winds have ravaged Los Angeles, killing at least five people and forcing over 100,000 residents to evacuate.
Up to 1,500 buildings have been destroyed across 32,000 acres, including Pacific Palisades and Altadena, with damages estimated at $57 billion.
Firefighters are overwhelmed, as new blazes, including one near Hollywood Boulevard, erupt, causing gridlock and panic.
The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles has urged Filipinos in affected areas to stay alert and follow evacuation orders.
Scientists attribute the increasing severity of wildfires to climate change, with dry conditions and overgrown vegetation priming Southern California for such disasters.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 10, 2025
