The tragic fires sweeping across the Greater Los Angeles area have burned more than 40,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,300 structures, and prompted evacuation orders and warnings for as many as 200,000 residents. Exceptionally dry conditions, coupled with strong Santa Ana winds, have fueled the fires. The largest blaze, the Palisades Fire, has burned nearly 24,000 acres in Pacific Palisades and parts of Malibu. The Eaton Fire, located north of Pasadena, has burned more than 14,000 acres and left the community of Altadena in ashes. The Eaton and Palisades fires are now among the most destructive wildfires in California history. (usgs.gov)