Politics
22:14, 04-Sep-2017
Over 1,000 firefighters battle largest wildfire in Los Angeles history
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The largest wildfire in Los Angeles history broke out on Friday. Since then, more than 1,000 firefighters have joined the battle against the blaze, said Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Ralph Terrazas during a press conference on Sunday.
206 fire engines and nine helicopters are dedicated to fighting the fire, added Terrazas.
A man takes a photo as flames from the La Tuna Fire come over a hill in the Shadow Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, September 2, 2017. /AFP Photo
A man takes a photo as flames from the La Tuna Fire come over a hill in the Shadow Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, September 2, 2017. /AFP Photo
With the help of a light rain and easing temperatures, firefighters saw signs of driving the blaze back on Sunday.
However, while the rain brought much needed moisture, strong winds have blown the fire around, said Terraza.
“We’ve turned the corner, but this is not over,” Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti told reporters. “With winds this strong, anything can happen.”
He also said four firefighters had suffered dehydration or minor burns but had no life-threatening injuries.
Flames from the La Tuna Fire in the Shadow Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, September 2, 2017. /AFP Photo
Flames from the La Tuna Fire in the Shadow Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, September 2, 2017. /AFP Photo
California governor Jerry Brown issued a state of emergency for Los Angeles County on Sunday due to the ongoing fire, with his announcement allowing state personnel and equipment to be used for fighting the fires as soon as possible.
The fire, started in La Tuna Canyon, has burned nearly 5,900 acres and destroyed at least three homes. So far, four people are reported to have been injured.
It is reported that around 1,400 people evacuated from their homes but 90 percent had returned by Sunday afternoon as the wildfires appeared to be easing. Garcetti added nearly all residents would be back before the day was over.