Death toll from California wildfires hits 16

The death toll from the wildfires in Southern California has risen to 16.

The fires, which began on Tuesday night, was said to have been caused by strong gusty winds and fast-moving embers.

At least five fires are currently burning through Los Angeles and nearby counties.

The Woodley, Hust, and Lidia fires, which began on Wednesday, have reportedly been contained.

However, the Palisades and Eaton fires are still active and are considered the largest.

The fires have led to the evacuation of more than 137,000 people and destruction of over 1,000 houses, cars and businesses, with hospitals shuttered.

Despite efforts, the Palisades Fire continued to grow Saturday reaching 23,600 acres (9,500 hectares), while the Eaton Fire was at 14,000 acres.

More than 137,000 people have been forced to evacuate, with over 1,000 homes, vehicles, and businesses destroyed. Hospitals in affected areas have also closed.

California fire officials reported that more than 12,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed. This figure includes outbuildings, recreational vehicles, and sheds as well as homes.

At least 16 people have reportedly been confirmed dead, an increase from the five fatalities recorded on Thursday.

The National Weather Service has warned that dangerous fire weather conditions will persist into early next week, raising concerns over the potential for further outbreaks.

“This may lead to the spread of ongoing fires as well as the development of new ones,” the service said.

Meanwhile, Robert Luna, Los Angeles county sheriff said a huge investigation was underway to determine what caused the blazes, involving the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), along with local authorities.

Luna said it was not yet clear whether the fires were criminal in nature but stressed the importance of accountability if wrongdoing is found.

“We are not going to leave any rock unturned. If this is a criminal act — I’m not saying it’s going to be — if it is, we need to hold whoever did this, or groups responsible,” he added.

Luna urged anyone with information to come forward as emergency teams continue their efforts.