Exhausted LA firefighters prepare for potentially the final round of dangerous winds.

LOS ANGELES – 20 JAN - Exhausted Los Angeles firefighters braced for the return of more dangerous winds on Sunday, as California's governor, Gavin Newsom, addressed the ongoing wildfire crisis. Two massive fires, which have destroyed nearly 40,000 acres and claimed 27 lives, were reported to be over 50% contained. Despite this progress, the National Weather Service warned of "high-end red flag fire weather conditions" with winds reaching up to 130 km/h expected to return on Monday. Governor Newsom called the winds extreme and unprecedented, emphasizing the state's preparations, including the deployment of 135 fire crews, helicopters, and bulldozers.

The fires, fueled by California's driest start to the year since 1850, have devastated neighborhoods across Los Angeles. The Palisades Fire, responsible for 10 deaths, is 52% contained, while the Eaton Fire, which killed 17, is at 81%. Evacuation orders have been lifted in some areas, allowing residents to return home and reunite with lost pets. Meanwhile, political tensions have risen, with Governor Newsom criticizing misinformation about the fires and water management. Emergency crews continue assessing the damage and preparing for potential floods in the aftermath.