Los Angeles, U.S., January 9 (HBTV): At least five people have been killed, and approximately 2000 structures have been reduced to ash as raging wildfires swept through the Los Angeles area, officials confirmed.

The fires are said to have been fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds. The devastation forced thousands to evacuate their homes and businesses, with many fleeing smoke-filled canyons and celebrity-filled neighborhoods. A state of emergency was declared by California governor Gavin Newsom as wildfires raged across Los Angeles.   

A new wildfire has reportedly erupted in the Hollywood Hills scrubland, Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley announced, as five other blazes continued to devastate the county. The powerful Santa Ana winds, typically associated with high wildfire risks, fanned the flames and hindered firefighting operations.

The fires devastated communities, particularly in Pacific Palisades and Hollywood Hills, known for their affluent residents. Pacific Palisades, home to celebrities like Jamie Lee Curtis and Mark Hamill, saw widespread destruction, forcing evacuations. Homes and properties worth millions were consumed by the flames, with more than 1,000 structures destroyed. Hollywood Hills also experienced evacuations, with a new fire breaking out and threatening iconic areas. Nearly one million homes lost power, and schools were closed countywide. Many evacuees, including both ordinary residents and high-profile individuals, were forced to seek shelter elsewhere.   

(Inputs from various agencies)