At the time of writing about 2,000 structures have been destroyed in different areas of Greater L.A. and the fires cover large areas, totaling about 110 sq km. Fortunately the death toll is only 5 so far. The first 4 months of 2024 actually saw well above average rainfall in Southern California, but there’s been almost none since. Combined with very strong Santa Ana winds, and dry fire hydrants, it was a catastrophe in the making.