With rain in forecast, LA hopeful of firefight progress

25/1/2025 6:14

California firefighters could make more headway in containing three major wildfires burning in and around Los Angeles on Friday, as the latest round of blistering winds dissipates and the area's first rainfall in months arrives over the weekend.



The improved outlook comes after weeks of frustration in snuffing out the crisis, as crews contended with water shortages, gale-force winds, bone-dry air, and a steady outbreak of new fires that have stretched resources thin.



The fresh optimism coincides with a planned visit by President Donald Trump later on Friday to survey the destruction. Trump has sharply criticized local and state officials for their handling of the massive fires, which have incinerated entire neighborhoods, killing 28 people and damaging or destroying nearly 16,000 structures.