WASHINGTON: At least 11 people have died as wildfires continue to ravage the Los Angeles (LA) area, burning through approximately 39,000 acres and destroying over 12,000 structures, the United Press International (UPI) reported.

Firefighters have managed to partly or mostly contain four remaining wildfires in the region, but more than 153,000 residents remain under mandatory evacuation orders.

Authorities have warned that failure to comply could result in misdemeanor charges, according to NBC News on Saturday.

The progress made in containment has been attributed to reduced winds and dry conditions.

However, fire crews are preparing for a resurgence of high winds, expected to climb from single digits to 20-30 mph overnight and into Sunday, potentially fuelling further fire activity.

-- BERNAMA