Ethan Swope/AP

Four large fires have burned over 15,000 acres in 24 hours in Los Angeles County, with wind gusts reaching hurricane-level strength in one of the region’s most destructive fires in history.

Authorities warn that the severe winds are likely to intensify in the hours ahead. But as of this writing, 80,000 people are under mandatory evacuation orders, and over 3oo,ooo residents remain without power. Officials on Wednesday confirmed two reported fatalities and a “high number of significant injuries.” According to Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone, over 1100 structures have been destroyed. While fire officials investigate the causes of the fires, they have undeniably been fueled by the Santa Ana winds which have surpassed 100 mph.

A 2023 study found climate change to be a significant contributor to California’s record-breaking wildfires over the past two decades.

The National........

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