Los Angeles Wildfires Fully Contained

Firefighting officials in the United States announced on Friday that the devastating Eaton fire, which consumed over 14,000 acres east of Los Angeles, has been fully contained.

This marks a significant achievement after more than three weeks of battling massive wildfires on both sides of the city.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection confirmed that the larger Palisades fire, which scorched 23,448 acres on the western side of Los Angeles, has also been contained to 100%.

Together, these two major fires, alongside numerous smaller blazes, have caused what is now considered the worst natural disaster in Los Angeles County's history, claiming 28 lives and destroying or damaging over 16,000 buildings.

During the height of the fires, evacuation orders were issued for 180,000 residents, as officials worked tirelessly to protect lives and property.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department reported that the combined destruction has resulted in anticipated economic losses exceeding $250 billion, according to forecasts by weather service AccuWeather.

Recent rains, much needed in Southern California, have aided firefighters in their efforts to fully contain the blazes, though the wet weather has also heightened the risk of flash floods and mudslides in the hilly areas surrounding the city.

Despite the 100% containment of the fires, firefighting officials have stated that much of the remaining areas still pose a significant threat due to their rugged, mountainous terrain.