Forecasted strong winds in LA threaten fight against the fires

Los Angeles: Additional water tankers and scores of firefighters arrived at the Los Angeles area on Monday ahead of fierce winds that were forecast to return and threaten the progress made so far on two massive infernos that have destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least

24 people.

Planes doused homes and hillsides with bright pink fire-retardant chemicals, while crews and fire engines were being placed near particularly vulnerable spots with dry brush.

Dozens of water trucks rolled in to replenish supplies after hydrants ran dry last week when the two largest fires erupted.

Tabitha Trosen and her boyfriend said she feels like they are “teetering” on the edge with the constant fear that their neighbourhood could be the next under threat.

“Our cats are ready to go, we have their carriers by the door prepped with their little stuffed animals and things like that,” Trosen said, adding that she’s packed things as she thinks about what she could lose.

“It’s like, how do I take care of myself, and what are the things that will ground me as a human and remind me of my background and my life and my family.”

LA officials are confident in their improved fire preparedness, with additional firefighters from across the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Despite predicted strong winds, fire risks remain high. Several fires have scorched 62 square miles, and authorities are searching for victims, with two dozen still missing.