Largest Los Angeles wildfire 'fully' contained

The largest wildfire in the history of Los Angeles has been 100 per cent brought under control, authorities said.

"The minimally smouldering 7,194 acres are now 100 per cent contained due to the relentless work of your firefighters," an official of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) announced on Saturday.

The fast-moving wildfire ripped through the La Tuna Canyon in Los Angeles County since September 1, prompting declaration of an emergency by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and California Governor Jerry Brown.

The fire, threatening homes and critical infrastructure, had forced the evacuation of hundreds of residents and triggered the closure of a major highway.

 

At the peak of the wildfire, there were 1,061 firefighters on the scene.

"Proud of the strength, bravery and collaboration that our LAFD displayed as they worked to contain the La Tuna Fire and keep Angelenos safe," Mayor Garcetti said.

Weather change, including cooler temperatures and rain, helped in the battle against the blaze.

Five homes and five outbuildings were destroyed.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

--IANS

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