Wildfires in Los Angeles have destroyed thousands of homes and killed 24 people, with 16 others missing as of Sunday.

Red flag warnings for severe fire conditions are in place through Wednesday, with strong Santa Ana winds expected to peak on Tuesday.

Firefighters, aided by additional water trucks and fire retardant drops, are preparing for the dangerous weather.

The Palisades and Eaton fires have consumed over 62 square miles, with containment at 11% and 27%, respectively.

Authorities are conducting grid searches for victims and have established centers and databases for missing persons and property damage.

Residents are urged to stay away from scorched areas due to unstable structures, broken utilities, and toxic ash, the Associated Press has reported.

Approximately 150,000 people remain under evacuation orders, with repopulation discussions expected to begin Thursday.

The firefighting effort involves over 14,000 personnel, including crews from nine states and Mexico.

Written by B.C. Begley