More than 10,000 homes, including numerous businesses, have been destroyed in the devastating Los Angeles wildfire, with at least 11 lives lost so far. The region, home to 13 million people, faces the immense challenge of recovery and rebuilding in the wake of the disaster.

In Southern California, a flare-up of the Palisades Fire has prompted additional mandatory evacuation orders. Reports indicate that the fire is advancing northeast, with areas from Sunset Boulevard north to Encino Reservoir and from the 405 Freeway west to Mandeville Canyon now under evacuation. Brentwood is also at risk.

Off-ramps at Getty Center Drive and Skirball Center Drive on I-405 are closed in both directions. Los Angeles Fire Department Captain Erik Scott confirmed the significant flare-up on the fire's eastern edge, emphasizing its continued northeastward movement.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office has implemented a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. in all mandatory evacuation zones affected by the Palisades and Eaton wildfires. Residents are urged to stay away from these areas for their safety and to enable first responders to operate effectively. Violators of the curfew face penalties, including fines of up to $1,000 or imprisonment.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has invited President-elect Trump to visit the wildfire-affected areas as he prepares to assume office. In a letter, Newsom expressed gratitude to President Biden for swiftly approving a major disaster declaration but stressed that the threat to lives and property remains critical. He urged Trump to witness the devastation, meet affected residents, and thank first responders.

The letter also referenced Trump’s previous visits during his first term to wildfire-impacted areas, including the Camp Fire in Paradise, California, and the Woolsey Fire near Malibu. Newsom called for unity in addressing the disaster, urging a focus on recovery and avoiding politicization of the tragedy.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have joined relief efforts, supporting victims of the wildfires in Southern California. The couple met with Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo to discuss recovery initiatives and had earlier delivered food to displaced families. On their website, they described the devastation as affecting tens of thousands and shared resources for aiding wildfire victims.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) announced school closures across L.A. County due to air quality and fire concerns. Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho stated that officials are monitoring conditions and will provide an update on reopening plans by Sunday.

On Friday evening, new evacuation orders were issued near Encino Reservoir as the Palisades Fire gained strength. The Los Angeles County Fire Department urged residents to evacuate immediately from the affected areas, while those outside the evacuation zones were advised to shelter in place.