The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has confirmed that 10 people have died as a result of the devastating wildfires sweeping across the region. Efforts to identify the victims and notify their families are ongoing.
Wildfire Devastation
The Eaton Fire near Pasadena has claimed the lives of five civilians. The blaze has scorched 13,690 acres and destroyed an estimated 972 structures, though officials warn the total may climb as high as 5,000. Meanwhile, the Palisades Fire continues to wreak havoc, consuming 19,978 acres with containment currently at just 6%. Over 1,396 firefighters are battling these relentless infernos, which have forced widespread evacuations and left communities on edge.
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Utility Under Fire: LADWP Safety Failures Exposed
As the fires rage on, a shocking report has surfaced regarding the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP). Unlike other major utilities in California, LADWP has been criticized for failing to implement basic wildfire prevention measures.
The utility reportedly lacks key safety protocols, including a power shutoff plan during high winds, weather monitoring stations, and a camera network to monitor fire conditions in high-risk zones. These high-risk areas account for 21% of LADWP’s service territory.
In contrast, Southern California Edison took proactive measures this week, cutting power to 178,000 customers to mitigate wildfire risks. LADWP, however, kept its lines energized, leading to widespread outages caused by wind damage.
LADWP has defended its approach, citing concerns that power shutoffs might disrupt “vital functions.” This rationale echoes the one used by Hawaiian Electric prior to the Maui wildfire disaster, which resulted in significant loss of life and over $2 billion in damages.
Communities Call for Accountability
With fire-related casualties rising and safety concerns mounting, residents and officials are demanding greater accountability from LADWP and other stakeholders. As firefighters continue their battle against the blazes, the focus remains on preventing further loss of life and property.
