Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have issued an urgent plea as the devastating Los Angeles wildfires inflict total destruction.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex urged people to “open their homes” to those evacuated and “check-in” on any of their “disabled or elderly neighbours”.
The couple, who live in Montecito, California, posted a series of links on their Sussex.com website to various charities they’ve previously worked with.
Express.co.uk previously reported that electricity companies around Montecito suggested that shut downs of power were possible.
They wrote: “In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighborhoods(sic) and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centers(sic), and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life.
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“A state of emergency has been issued. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas.”
Harry and Meghan continued: “If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do.
“And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbors(sic) to see if they need help evacuating,’
“Some families and people have been left with nothing.
“Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys & clothing, and other essentials. The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those in need.”
At least five people have been killed, and thousands of structures were burned as the fierce wildfires raged in the Los Angeles area, officials said.
Fast-moving flames blazed through homes and businesses as residents fled smoke-filled canyons and picturesque neighbourhoods that are home to many celebrities, including the Sussexes.
US star Paris Hilton, actor Billy Crystal, The Princess Bride star Cary Elwes, talk show host Ricki Lake and Oscar-winning songwriter Diane Warren are among those who have confirmed that their residences have been destroyed in the fires.
Harry and Meghan said that Airbnb and 211LA, a non-profit organisation offering housing advice, have partnered to provide free temporary housing to people displaced/
They added that long-time Archewell Foundation partner World Central Kitchen is serving meals to emergency service crews and victims.
The list also included Cal Fire and LA Fire Department Foundation which are supporting firefighters, as well as the Animal Wellness Foundation which is housing evacuated animals.
According to the couple’s statement, Baby2baby is offering nappies, clothing and emergency kits to families, Compton Cowboys is providing emergency transport for horses and bookshop All Power Books is keeping its doors open to distribute aid and offer supplies and water for pick-up.
Burned trees and wildfire smoke are seen from Will Rogers State Park in LA
Burned trees and wildfire smoke are seen from Will Rogers State Park in LA (Image: Getty)
Many of the towering fires that began Tuesday were fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds, which gusted to more than 70 mph in some spots.
Thousands of firefighters were attempting to contain the original fire in Palisades, with at least 70,000 people forced to evacuate their homes as the metropolitan area became blanketed in a thick cloud of smoke and ash.
A new fire broke out in the Hollywood Hills, threatening a host of tourist sites, including the Walk of Fame and Hollywood Bowl, which has evacuated staff as strong winds scattered embers, which could affect more homes and lives.
The winds dropped Thursday, but the National Weather Service warned that even the reduced gusts could still spread fire rapidly.
The exact death toll remained unclear Thursday morning.
