Los Angeles Wildfires Claim 11 As Officials Defend Response

Six fires are currently burning around Los Angeles, California in the United States.

Authorities declared a local health emergency due to poor air quality as fire ash and smoke blanket the area.

California’s governor called for an independent investigation into how critical fire hydrants ran out of water.

At least 11 people have been killed in the fires so far – more than 10,000 homes and other structures destroyed.

An evacuation order was expanded near the Palisades Fire – and at least 22 people were arrested in LA County including suspected looters.

Officials defended what they did to prepare for a wildfire this week, saying resources were pulled in from other parts of the state.

A forecast for more strong winds raised fears that blazes could spread yesterday.