At least 24 people have died in massive wildfires in Southern California, according to The Washington Post.

California Governor Gavin Newsom stated that the scale of destruction from this natural disaster could make it the most devastating in U.S. history.

From January 13 to 15, meteorologists predict an intensification of the "Santa Ana" winds, which previously contributed to the spread of the fires. Meanwhile, local authorities announced at a January 12 press conference that they hope evacuated residents of Pacific Palisades and Eaton, suburbs of Los Angeles, will be able to return to their homes starting January 16.

According to The Washington Post, three fires that have been raging in Los Angeles suburbs since January 7 have devastated an area of 40,000 acres—larger than the size of San Francisco. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) reported that the flames have destroyed more than 12,000 structures, forcing approximately 150,000 people to evacuate their homes.