Drone footage from Thursday showed the devastation caused by the Palisades fire to beachfront homes in Malibu.
It could be a week or more before homeowners in the Los Angeles area are allowed to check on their fire-damaged properties.
Authorities said Thursday that teams must first assess the threat of potentially toxic ash and debris left by the blazes that have blackened neighborhoods across the region.
More than 80,000 people are still under evacuation orders, and many do not know what, if anything, is left of their houses, apartments and possessions.
County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said residents eager to enter burned areas to see what’s left of their homes or search for valuables need to be patient.
The rubble can contain asbestos, lead and other dangerous materials.
AP Video by Jae C. Hong
