Wildfires in Los Angeles caused chaos as firefighters struggled with low water pressure and dry hydrants. Areas like Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Pasadena were hit hard. The intense demand drained storage tanks and overwhelmed water systems. A reservoir under maintenance made things worse, while power outages disrupted pumps. Over 9,000 structures were damaged in the fires. Governor Gavin Newsom called for an investigation into water supply failures. Experts suggest improving storage, upgrading pipelines, and adding backup power for pumps. Meanwhile, firefighters relied on tanker trucks and unconventional sources like swimming pools to battle the flames.

Former Olympic swimmer Gary Hall Jr. has lost his home, belongings, and all ten Olympic medals in the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. The 50-year-old athlete, who won 10 medals across three Olympic Games, described the destruction as "worse than any apocalypse movie." His rented home in Pacific Palisades and the swimming pool where he taught his children were destroyed. Despite the tragedy, Hall remains optimistic, stating, "It's time to start a new chapter." A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Hall in rebuilding his life and business following the massive loss.

In a statement ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration, outgoing US President Joe Biden, 82, ruled out retreating from public life after January 20. When asked if he would follow the post-presidency model of staying out of the spotlight, Biden told reporters, “I'm not going to be out of sight—out of mind.” While he didn’t share specific post-presidency plans, Biden’s comments suggest he intends to remain visible. This contrasts with the typical trend of US presidents, such as Barack Obama, who distanced themselves from the public after leaving office. Trump, Biden’s successor, plans to run for president again.

US President Joe Biden described Los Angeles as a "battle scene" following the devastating wildfires that continue to ravage the city. Speaking from the Oval Office, Biden noted "clear evidence" of looting in affected neighborhoods, prompting authorities to enforce nighttime curfews and deploy military and National Guard personnel for security. He criticized "demagogues" for spreading misinformation about the disaster, likening the destruction to targeted bombings in a war zone. Biden's remarks come as California grapples with one of its worst fire seasons, displacing thousands and causing widespread destruction. The fires have intensified debates over climate change and disaster preparedness.

A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for areas impacted by the Palisades fire in Los Angeles, covering Sunset Boulevard North to Encino Reservoir and the 405 Freeway West to Mandeville Canyon. The fire has consumed over 21,317 acres with only 8% containment, as wildfires ravage parts of the city. At least 11 fatalities and widespread destruction have been reported. LA police enforce a 6 pm-6 am curfew, warning violators of arrests and fines. Meanwhile, Paris Hilton, whose Malibu home burned down, donated $100,000 and pledged to match donations for displaced families. Thousands remain under evacuation.

A 10-month-old child in Assam's Dibrugarh has tested positive for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), marking the first case in the state for 2025. The toddler was admitted to AMCH with a common cold and was diagnosed with the virus during routine screening. The total number of HMPV cases in India now stands at 11, with cases confirmed in several states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. Health officials have reassured the public that HMPV primarily affects children under five and there is no immediate cause for alarm.

Outgoing US President Joe Biden stated he could have defeated Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election but withdrew to unify the Democratic Party. In July 2024, Biden endorsed Kamala Harris as his replacement, citing party concerns about his health and performance. Despite Harris's loss, Biden expressed confidence in her leadership and potential to run again. Reflecting on his term, Biden called it the "greatest honour" of his life and ruled out withdrawing from public life. He denied any plans to pardon himself or his family, asserting he has "done nothing wrong."

Nearly 1,000 incarcerated individuals are battling massive wildfires in California, part of a programme run by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The fires have destroyed 10,000 structures, burned 37,000 acres, and killed 11 people. Inmates, earning $5.80-$10.24 daily, cut fire lines and clear fuel to slow the spread. Critics call the programme exploitative due to low wages and lack of recognition, while supporters argue it provides training, time credits, and better living conditions. Many inmates face stigma after release, struggling to become professional firefighters despite California's firefighter shortage.

Elon Musk's biographer, Seth Abramson, has raised concerns about Musk’s mental health, accusing him of being "deeply unwell." In posts on X, Abramson cited Musk’s acknowledged struggles with stress, drug use, and mental health, warning of risks posed by his influence over key industries like AI, aerospace, and social media. Abramson also criticized Musk’s controversial behavior online, including his support for far-right figures and polarizing political remarks. Calling for urgent action, Abramson urged the government to terminate contracts with Musk and file lawsuits. The claims have sparked widespread debate, with users questioning Musk’s stability and intentions.

Los Angeles wildfires have killed 11 people and destroyed 10,000 homes since Tuesday. Sheriff Robert Luna likened the devastation to an "atomic bomb." Despite efforts, fires continue to threaten upscale neighborhoods, including Hollywood Hills. Strong winds and red-flag conditions complicate firefighting efforts. Over 1 lakh homes are without power, and schools remain shut due to hazardous air. President Biden has declared the disaster a major emergency, promising 100% federal support for 180 days. Relief efforts include donations, with actor Jamie Lee Curtis pledging $1 million. Authorities have detained one man for possible arson and arrested 20 for looting.