New images have shown the extent of the catastrophic damage caused by the Los Angeles wildfires, which have claimed five lives and forced tens of thousands to evacuate.
The Palisades Fire has been dubbed the most destructive in Los Angeles’ history as a devastating windstorm created dangerous fire conditions, allowing for the flames to rapidly engulf the Hollywood Hills.
It is burning across more than 6394 hectares and is completely uncontained, according to the latest update by the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Residents affected have shared before and after images online, showing their formerly idyllic beachside community completely gutted by the fire.
“Yesterday morning I had a beautiful Spanish cottage that gave me endless joy … Now, ashes,” Denise Crosby wrote.
“My beloved dog beach before and after,” Melonie Kastman from Malibu wrote.
The first photo shows blue skies, with palm trees and buildings lining the beach.
In the second photo, the buildings and trees have been wiped and the landscape is blackened.
Several more wildfires are burning across Los Angeles County, including in Eaton, Hurst, Woodley, Sunset and Lidia.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said the firestorm was a “big one”, adding that hurricane-force winds and extremely dry, drought conditions were making the situation all the more devastating.
More than 130,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate the region, including about 60,000 in Palisades and about 70,000 in Eaton.
Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed at least five people have died, warning the death toll will “likely” climb.
More than 1000 structures have been destroyed.
President Joe Biden has declared the wildfires a “major disaster”, unlocking funding and additional support to the area.
”It’s devastating. To the residents of Southern California: We are with you,” he wrote in a statement on X.
Newsom said authorities were throwing “everything we can into protecting residents with substantial state, local and federal resources”.
“The situation in Los Angeles is highly dangerous and rapidly evolving … To all those in Southern California, please continue to listen to local authorities and don’t wait, evacuate if asked,” he said.
Bass also sent her condolences to those who have lost loved ones and property.
“I stand here today with incredible sympathy and concern about the devastation and the tragedy that our city and county are facing,” she said.
