Currently, close to 250,000 residents and businesses are experiencing power outages as wildfires continue to spread throughout Southern California.

As of 10:30 a.m. ET, the YSL News power outage tracker indicates that over 245,000 outages have been documented, primarily affecting northern Los Angeles County, according to the outage map provided by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.

The catastrophic fires that ignited on Monday have resulted in the destruction of at least 1,000 homes, businesses, and other properties, as reported by Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone. Tragically, there have been at least five confirmed fatalities, with the potential for more as the fires grow and additional ones begin.

In response to the crisis, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency this week, which has forced over 100,000 individuals to evacuate their homes.

President Joe Biden has also granted Governor Newsom’s request for a major disaster declaration, authorizing federal aid to assist in response efforts in fire-affected regions.

According to Newsom’s office, more than 7,500 state personnel are currently collaborating with local and federal teams to control the blazes.

The ongoing fires—including the Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Lidia, and Sunset—have engulfed thousands of acres and are still expanding.

As of Thursday morning, Cal Fire reported that the Palisades, Eaton, and Sunset fires remain completely uncontrolled, while firefighters have managed to achieve 10% containment of the Hurst fire.

What caused the wildfires in California?

Authorities attribute the wildfires to low humidity and dry plant life due to limited rainfall and high winds.

Prior to the outbreak of the fires, the National Weather Service (NWS) alerted residents in Los Angeles County about extreme fire danger and the likelihood of winds reaching speeds of up to 100 mph.

The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services reported that the wildfires are creating unhealthy air quality.

“If you are affected, please stay indoors and wear a mask if you need to venture outside,” the agency advised on X. “Ensure all windows, doors, and vents are closed.”

When will power be restored in California?

The Los Angeles Department of Water & Power indicated that customers experiencing outages can expect crews to respond within 24-48 hours from when outages are reported.

However, the restoration process might take longer, as noted by the city government.

Repair crews are already addressing outages in various locations, including the city of LA, North Hollywood, and Universal City, as shown on the Department of Water & Power’s map.

This article has been updated with new information.