Death toll may rise in Los Angeles wildfires – local officials (VIDEOS)

President-elect Donald Trump has called the catastrophe “one of the worst” in US history

Los Angeles city officials have warned that the death toll from the wildfires ravaging the area may rise as search and rescue operations proceed and as firefighters struggle to contain the blazes. At least 16 people are confirmed death, 13 are missing, and over 12,000 structures have been destroyed, according to officials.   

The fires have scorched 39,000 acres and forced 180,000 residents to evacuate. Strong winds, with gusts up to 100 mph (160km), are creating hazardous conditions for firefighters. 

Los Angeles county sheriff Robert Luna said the death toll is expected to rise as search dogs are deployed to the devastated areas. 

President-elect Donald Trump has criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom’s handling of the fires, accusing him of prioritizing environmental concerns over firefighting.  

“The fires are still raging in L.A. The incompetent pols have no idea how to put them out. Thousands of magnificent houses are gone, and many more will soon be lost. There is death all over the place. This is one of the worst catastrophes in the history of our Country. They just can’t put out the fires. What’s wrong with them?” he posted on Truth Social on Sunday.  

The first and largest of the wildfires is the so-called Palisades Fire, which began on January 7 in Pacific Palisades. It has now burned 23,500 acres and is only 11% contained.  

California wildfires Los Angeles#California #LosAngeles #LA #forestfire #2025 pic.twitter.com/FhJ3z8aSTS— FreedomHack (@freedomhack101) January 12, 2025

A video posted on X captured a massive fire tornado, or “firenado,” forming during the Palisades Fire. This rare phenomenon, caused by intense heat and turbulent winds, creates a spinning vortex of flames that spreads fire rapidly. Another video shows bikers racing through fire-engulfed streets, documenting the neighborhood ablaze.