Los Angeles engulfed: Firenado devastates as fires claim 24 lives
Los Angeles is grappling with devastating fires that have already claimed 24 lives. Extraordinary phenomena accompany the catastrophe. A swirling column of flames was captured on video, with the "fire whirl" circulating on social media.
Los Angeles is contending with powerful fires that have already ravaged over 12,000 hectares. A video showing the "fire whirl", a phenomenon that occurs during intense fires and strong winds, was published on Platform X. It is also known as a "firenado."
This is a very rare and dangerous phenomenon. It forms when strong currents cause the fire to take on a vertical structure and begin rotating like a tornado.
"Fire devil". A rare and dangerous phenomenon
In the formation of this fiery tornado, the extremely different temperatures between the fire-heated surface and the air play a significant role. The temperature inside such a column of flames reaches nearly 1,000 degrees Celsius.
The fires in Los Angeles have claimed 24 lives, with 16 people dying in the Eaton fire and eight in the Palisades. City authorities report that only one victim has been identified - 66-year-old Victor Shaw.
The fire has already destroyed over 10,000 buildings. 100,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate.
The fight against the disaster involves 12,000 firefighters from California and neighbouring states, supported by crews from Canada and Mexico. Director of California Emergency Services, Nancy Ward, warns that the fight against the fires is not over yet.
The forecasts still predict an increase in wind speed. This could significantly worsen the situation and spark new fires.
Source: CNN/TVN24/Polskie Radio
