At least 24 people have gone missing in large wildfires in Los Angeles County, California, with police leaders continuing their search amid dangerous conditions that threaten the outbreak of new fires.

Authorities in Los Angeles reported that 24 people have died since the fires broke out last Tuesday, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue teams search homes in affected areas.

The fires have burned more than 38,000 acres and destroyed at least 10,000 buildings.

The county sheriff emphasized the need for caution, noting that winds are still blowing, which increases the severity of the situation.

According to The Washington Post, the damage from the fires is estimated at around $150 billion.