Estimated cost of fire damage balloons to more than $250 billion

Early fire detection is key, even more important when the fire is fueled by strong winds.

The raging wildfires in Southern California have caused economic losses estimated between $250 billion and $275 billion, making them one of the costliest natural disasters in U.S. history. Initially projected at $50 billion, the costs escalated as fires spread through areas like Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu.

Firefighters continue to battle multiple blazes across Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with over 150,000 people displaced and more than 15,000 structures damaged or destroyed. So far, 28 people have died. The Palisades Fire, sweeping through high-value real estate, may become the worst wildfire in California’s history.