LOS ANGELES — Strong winds that sent wildfires ripping through the mountains and foothills around Los Angeles fed a spectacle of smoke, flames and flight.
Firefighters are fighting a number of wildfires throughout Los Angeles County, notably in the Sylmar region, the Eaton Canyon area close to Altadena, and the slopes of the Pacific Palisades.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna says death toll expected to rise as major blazes burn across the area, forcing thousands from their homes and ravaging communities.
Although winds are predicted to lessen, firefighters are still dealing with “extreme fire behavior,” according to LA County fire chief Kristin Crowley.
At least five people have been killed and between 4,000 and 5,000 structures destroyed, according to preliminary tallies, as the main fires remain out of control.
At least 180,000 people are under evacuation orders in the Los Angeles area, officials say.
Take a look at powerful images from the firefighting efforts below.
