This loss has deeply affected Hajime. She shared, “It’s like a ton of bricks just fell on me.” At the moment, she is awaiting updates from her family in Los Angeles about when it will be safe for her to travel and begin planning the funeral for Justin and Anthony.

As reported on California’s official government website, the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst wildfires have scorched 40,300 acres, destroying numerous homes and structures in their path. The devastation has deeply affected many families and communities.

Currently, the Palisades fire is only 13 percent contained, while containment for the Eaton and Hurst fires has reached 27 and 89 percent, respectively. According to the Los Angeles County coroner’s office, the death toll rose to 24 over the weekend, with eight fatalities attributed to the Palisades fire and 16 to the Eaton fire.

Authorities expect the death toll to increase as search teams, assisted by cadaver dogs, meticulously comb through neighborhoods that have been destroyed. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna reported that 12 individuals remain missing in the Eaton zone, while four others are unaccounted for in the Palisades area.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings for critical fire conditions until January 15, with sustained winds of 50 mph and gusts in mountainous regions reaching up to 70 mph.

January 14 is anticipated to be the most dangerous day for the California wildfires, with strong winds likely to accelerate the spread of the blaze. To prepare, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone announced that 70 extra water trucks have been deployed to support firefighters in their efforts to control the fire.