Inferno to hellscape: Los Angeles wildfires continue to leave a trail of destruction

Firefighters in Los Angeles battled relentless wildfires, five days after strong winds and dry conditions ignited blazes that have devastated homes and turned parts of the city into chaos. (AP photo)

Parts of Los Angeles, famous for its movie industry, now resembled scenes from war films. Vast neighborhoods were devastated, with homes reduced to rubble and charred trees standing as haunting reminders of the destruction. (AP photo)

Light winds fueled the flames, with the National Weather Service warning that strong Santa Ana winds could return. These winds have intensified the wildfires, destroying neighborhoods in a city lacking significant rainfall for over eight months. (AP photo)

The fires have engulfed around 56 square miles (145 square kilometers), an area larger than San Francisco. Tens of thousands are still under evacuation orders, with new evacuations issued Friday evening following a flare-up on the eastern side of the Palisades Fire. (AP photo)

The cause of the largest fires remains undetermined, with early estimates suggesting they could become the nation’s most expensive wildfires. AccuWeather’s preliminary estimate places the damage and economic losses between $135 billion and $150 billion. (AP photo)

The influx of volunteers at donation centers was so high that some were turned away. This included a YMCA in Koreatown and, by late morning, cars of would-be helpers were also being redirected from the Santa Anita Park horse racing track, which was accepting donations of necessities. (AP photo)

At least 11 people have been confirmed dead—five in the Palisades Fire and six in the Eaton Fire—according to the LA County medical examiner's office. Officials anticipate the death toll will rise as cadaver dogs search through leveled neighborhoods and crews assess the damage. On Friday, authorities set up a center for people to report missing individuals. (AP photo)