Images show before and after places destroyed by fire in California
“Palisades” Fire is the third most destructive in California history, according to CalFire. The fire covered 21,317 hectares, killed five people and destroyed more than 5,000 structures on the Malibu coast. Among the destroyed homes is that of actor Mel Gibson.
The “Eaton” fire source is the fourth worst, with 13,690 hectares. It killed six people and devastated another 5,000 structures. Northeast of the city, the fire still threatens Altadena and Pasadena.
Winds caused the fire to spread quickly. The California region is subject to the action of the Santa Ana winds, explained BBC meteorologist Matt Taylor. The phenomenon occurs when a large area of high pressure settles inland over the western United States.
More than 180,000 people had to leave their homes. Five fires remain active in the region, but firefighters are having difficulty putting out the flames. “It appears an atomic bomb has struck these areas,” Sheriff Robert Luna said in a news release.