Photo: AFP
At least 35,000 acres have burned so far from the California wildfires as they move closer to the cities of Brentwood and Encino.
Los Angeles firefighters were able to contain some of the wildfires Friday as strong winds calmed slightly. As of Saturday, the Palisades Fire is 8% contained, while the Eaton Fire is 3% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Firefighters have contained 98% of the Lidia Fire, 70% of the Hurst Fire and 50% of the Kenneth Fire.
A 'firenado' was also spotted amid the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles on Friday night.
Officials there say more than 12,000 homes and buildings have been destroyed and at least 11 people have been confirmed dead. It's the worst wildfires the city has seen in recent history.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced Saturday morning that he has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) and Texas A&M Forest Service to deploy firefighters and firefighting equipment to assist California with the wildfire response efforts.
“Our hearts grieve with the entire Los Angeles community as they continue to respond to these destructive wildfires,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans know all too well the devastation wildfires can cause to our communities, and our country is stronger when we come together in times of crisis."