In Los Angeles, where they've battled fires for a week, hurricane-force winds are now on the way.

The number of fatalities from the wildfires that began exactly a week ago remains unchanged at 24 over the past 24 hours. According to the latest data, 23 people are reported missing. The day before, it was reported that the fate of 16 individuals remains unknown.

Forecasters are providing grim predictions regarding wind conditions in the near future. They indicate that gusts could reach up to 113 kilometers per hour, which poses a risk of new ignitions. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass stated that the winds are expected to be "close to hurricane levels," prompting authorities to take emergency response measures, as reported by BBC.

The largest wildfire in the Pacific Palisades area has engulfed more than 90 square kilometers. Emergency services currently have control over only 14% of its perimeter.

Information regarding the missing persons has come from areas affected by the "Palisades" and "Eton" fires. An evacuation order remains in effect for 90,000 local residents due to the ongoing disaster.

U.S. President Joe Biden stated on Monday during a briefing with emergency service representatives that the recovery from the fires, which have turned some parts of Los Angeles into smoldering ruins over the past week, will cost "tens of billions of dollars."

Biden expressed his deep condolences to the victims of the devastating wildfires, calling the losses immense. "Our hearts break for the 24 innocent souls we have lost. Jill and I are praying for them and their loved ones," said the U.S. President.

The White House leader assured that his administration is closely monitoring the situation. "I receive regular updates on firefighting efforts and have instructed my team to respond promptly to any requests for additional federal assistance," quoted Joe Biden by "Voice of America".

The total area of burned land exceeds 39,000 acres—approximately 2.5 times larger than Manhattan. Most of the casualties are attributed to the fire in Eton Canyon. The Pacific Palisades fire has reportedly claimed eight lives.

• In Southern California, where Los Angeles is located, only 2.5 millimeters of precipitation have fallen since May. Due to rising temperatures and decreasing rainfall associated with climate change, the fire season in the region is starting earlier and ending later, approaching a year-round occurrence, notes the Firefighters Association.

More news from Radio Liberty: