"Climate change, including increased heat, extended drought, and a thirsty atmosphere, has been a key driver in increasing the risk and extent of wildfires in the western United States," the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says.

As wildfires continue to devastate Los Angeles, leaving thousands displaced and causing widespread destruction, experts urge long-term support and careful giving.

Economic losses and damage are an estimated $135 billion and $150 billion, the costliest fire event in US history. Hurricane Helene in six states last fall caused up to $250 billion in damage.

Multiple major wildfires are leaving a trail of destruction and death in the Los Angeles area. A handful of wildfires that kicked up Tuesday, powered by high winds and dry conditions, have exploded in size.

As wildfires spread across Southern California this week, President-elect Donald Trump cast blame on state leaders and called for California Gov. Gavin Newsom to resign in a series of Truth Social posts.

The California governor invited Trump to the fire-ravaged state in a post on Friday afternoon amid intense backlash.