The Palisades Fire – the largest blaze – has killed at least five people. The Eaton Fire, above Altadena in northern Los Angeles County, has killed at least six people and burned more than 21 square miles, leaving apocalyptic scenes of destruction.

Wildfires are ravaging the Los Angeles area, spreading rapidly due to dry and windy conditions.The fires have burned through over 40,000 acres. Officials report that at least 24 people have died.Analysts estimate damages caused by the fires may top $50 billion — breaking previous state records.

A law enforcement task force has been set up to uncover what caused the fires. The local agencies involved — the Los Angeles fire and police departments and the county Sheriff’s Department, as well as Cal Fire — are considered to be among the most skilled in the country. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is leading the probe.