LA Fires Death Toll Rises to 16 as Evacuation Orders Expand and Health Warnings Intensify

The death toll from the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles County has risen to 16, as evacuation orders now affect 150,000 residents. The Palisades and Eaton Fires continue to wreak havoc, prompting emergency measures and public health advisories.

According to the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), over 700 displaced residents are being sheltered in nine facilities across the county. Evacuation orders remain in effect for areas at immediate risk, while evacuation warnings advise nearby residents to prepare to leave if conditions worsen.

The Kenneth and Hurst Fires have seen progress in containment, allowing authorities to lift evacuation orders and warnings in affected areas.

In addition to evacuation efforts, officials have issued critical health warnings:

• Residents in and around Pacific Palisades have been advised not to consume tap water due to potential fire-related contamination. Bottled water is being distributed at the Westwood Recreation Center and near the Brentwood Country Club.
• The use of power air blowers, including leaf blowers, has been banned countywide to reduce the spread of ash, smoke, and particulates harmful to respiratory health.
• The public health department has issued warnings against swimming, surfing, or entering ocean waters along a 20-mile stretch from Surfrider Beach to Dockweiler State Beach. Officials caution that these waters may pose health risks to those who come into contact with them.

Amid the crisis, officials have warned against looting in evacuated areas and price hikes at hotels housing displaced residents. Authorities are working to ensure safety and fair treatment for those affected by the disaster.

With containment efforts ongoing and weather conditions remaining unpredictable, authorities urge residents to stay informed and adhere to all evacuation and health advisories. Resources, including shelters and bottled water distributions, will continue to support those impacted by one of Los Angeles County’s most devastating wildfire events in recent history.