Los Angeles wildfires force new evacuations as death toll rises to 11
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Los Angeles residents faced new evacuation orders on Friday night as the devastating Palisades Fire shifted direction, forcing thousands to flee their homes in Brentwood and the San Fernando Valley. Fire chiefs warned of a "significant flare-up" on the blaze's eastern edge, with flames now moving northeast. The development marks another grim turn in what has become one of California's deadliest wildfire disasters.
The death toll has climbed to 11, with officials confirming the latest victim in Topanga. Five deaths are linked to the Palisades Fire, whilst six have perished in the separate Eaton Fire. Both infernos remain largely unchecked, with the Palisades Fire just 8 per cent contained and the Eaton Fire at a mere 3 per cent. They form part of six major blazes currently ravaging Los Angeles County.
Governor Gavin Newsom has demanded answers over reports of failing fire hydrants and water supply issues that hampered early firefighting efforts. County officials must now investigate why crucial hydrants in the Palisades area were unusable when crews needed them most.
The twin fires, already the most destructive in state history, continue to threaten thousands of properties. Fire crews face an uphill battle as they work to protect homes and establish containment lines around the massive blazes. A full investigation into the latest fatality is underway, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's office.
