Apocalyptic scenes are unfolding across Los Angeles County, as multiple wildfires continue to burn out of control, fueled by the fierce, hurricane-strength Santa Ana winds.
At least five people have been killed, and the fires have devastated entire neighborhoods, including the homes of several high-profile residents.
Huntington native Maia Noah, a former News 12 producer now living in Santa Monica, captured video of the destruction from the beach before evacuating.
“It was sunny and a beautiful day; we could see the ocean from the hills on Saturday, and now it's all smoke and flames,” Noah said.
She is currently staying in a hotel outside the fire zone.
The flames have already consumed homes belonging to several celebrities, including actor Billy Crystal, who grew up in Long Beach.
Actor Steve Guttenberg, originally from Massapequa, was seen helping neighbors escape the dangerous fire zone.
“The cars were bumper to bumper traffic for two miles, and it was dangerous. The fire was coming, and police told everyone to get out of their cars. People just left them in the streets,” Guttenberg said.
As the fires continue to rage, Long Islanders are expressing concern for their loved ones in California, with one writing, “Very unsettling and helpless from across the country.”
Another shared, “One of my best friends lost his house and everything he owns.”