Authorities in Los Angeles have warned most evacuees from wildfires not to return to their homes for at least another week while rescuers remove toxic waste from burned neighborhoods and disconnect electrical and gas installations that pose a danger among the ruins, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
Landslides are further threatening the devastated slopes, where collapsed buildings can no longer serve as support, and water from fire hoses and burst pipes has saturated the soil. This is adding to the stress and anguish of those affected by the worst natural disaster in Los Angeles history, Reuters notes.
As the wildfires burn for the 10th day, firefighters expressed relief that they have not allowed either of the two monstrous fires to spread despite strong desert winds and low humidity.
Frustrated evacuees are eager to return home to assess the damage and salvage what they can of their belongings. However, authorities said it was too dangerous and would create an additional burden on emergency services still struggling to contain the disaster, which has killed at least 27 people.