Death in Los Angeles wildfires rises to 24

The death toll from the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles has risen to 24, local authorities confirmed Sunday.

Eight of the deaths were due to the Palisades fire, while 16 were caused by the Eaton fire, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.

The Palisades fire, currently the largest active wildfire in the Los Angeles area, has destroyed more than 23,700 acres (about 96 square kilometers) and destroyed more than 5,300 structures since last Tuesday. The fire is 11 percent contained.

The Eaton fire, which has destroyed more than 14,100 acres (about 57.1 square kilometers) near Altadena and Pasadena, is currently 27 percent contained.

More than 12,300 structures have been destroyed and more than 100,000 people remain evacuated from several damaged areas that have covered more than 40,000 acres (about 161.9 square kilometers) as of Sunday.

As firefighters continue to fight the devastating flames, winds are expected to continue to intensify until Wednesday night, which could further complicate rescue efforts.

These winds, combined with low humidity and extremely dry vegetation, will keep the threat of fire in Los Angeles County at a “very high” level, said Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone.

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