Los Angeles County officials reported on Sunday that the death toll from the ongoing wildfires has increased to 24, with many individuals still unaccounted for. The devastating blazes, which began on Tuesday, have damaged or destroyed over 12,000 structures across the county.

The return of dangerous dry winds on Sunday has exacerbated the situation, creating fierce gusts that have transformed communities into rubble and left thousands of residents homeless. These winds, originating from the inland deserts, have not only fueled the flames but also carried embers up to 2 miles ahead of the fire lines.

In response to the crisis, aerial firefighters have been scooping water from the Pacific Ocean to combat the flames, while ground crews are working diligently with hand tools and hoses to protect the Palisades Fire from encroaching on the upscale Brentwood area and other populated regions of Los Angeles.