United States - January 08, 2025 Apocalyptic wildfires continue to devastate Los Angeles County, leaving at least five dead and forcing nearly 180,000 residents to flee their homes. On January 8, X user HashtagWills shared a harrowing video of the Palisades Fire consuming the area near Edgewater Towers at Sunset and Pacific Coast Highway, capturing the chaos unfolding in real time. The Palisades Fire, still largely uncontained, has become the most destructive blaze in the county’s history. Thousands of structures between Malibu and Santa Monica have been damaged or reduced to ashes, with the true toll yet to be determined, officials said Thursday. The day began with some hope as calmer winds allowed water drops from aircraft, but dangerous Santa Ana winds are expected to return, fueling the inferno. Toxic smoke and contaminated water continue to threaten residents, with pollution capable of traveling far and seeping into lungs and bloodstreams. Authorities have admitted the full scope of the tragedy remains unknown. “Frankly, we don’t know” the true death toll, one official said.