<h1>Wildfire Death Toll in Los Angeles County Rises to 16; Over 12,000 Structures Destroyed, Evacuations Ongoing.</h1> The Los Angeles County medical examiner's office confirmed that the wildfire death toll has risen to 16, with five deaths from the Palisades Fire and 11 from the Eaton Fire. Firefighters are battling to contain the blazes amid fears of strong winds that could worsen the situation. The fires have destroyed over 12,000 structures and forced tens of thousands to evacuate. Volunteers are aiding affected residents, while officials warn against returning to burned areas due to toxic ash. Allegations of inadequate firefighting resources have surfaced, and investigations into leadership failures are underway. Progress has been made on the Eaton Fire, with some evacuation orders lifted.