LOS ANGELES — The death toll from the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles has risen to 24, with officials warning of dangerous winds that could worsen the situation. The fires, now in their sixth day, have already destroyed entire communities, leaving thousands homeless.

Despite aggressive firefighting efforts, including a containment of the Palisades Fire near upscale Brentwood, authorities are bracing for "extreme fire behavior" as winds of up to 70 miles per hour are expected to intensify the blazes. This could cause embers to spread to new areas, creating a "particularly dangerous situation" starting Tuesday.

Search teams are combing through fire-affected areas with cadaver dogs, expecting the death toll to rise further. In addition, looters have been arrested, including one who disguised himself as a firefighter. Curfews have been extended in evacuated zones, and National Guard resources have been requested.

The Palisades Fire has burned 23,700 acres and is only 11% contained, while the Eaton Fire in Altadena has seen better containment at 27%. As the fires ravage the city, illegal price gouging from landlords is becoming a growing issue for evacuees searching for housing.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has vowed to rebuild, likening it to a “Marshall Plan,” while President-elect Donald Trump criticized the state's response. International aid has come from countries like Mexico and Ukraine, offering support to the firefighting efforts.

Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fires, with authorities noting that urban sprawl and climate change may have contributed to the devastation.