Wind-driven flames are pushing through the greater Los Angeles area, forcing residents to flee their homes by the tens of thousands. At least five major wildfires present an unprecedented disaster for rescue and relief officials,

Though winds were weaker than predicted Tuesday, firefighting crews awaited the return of dangerous winds that could fuel new blazes.

Firefighters on Wednesday confronted persistently strong and dry winds fueling two giant wildfires that have terrified Los Angeles for eight days, testing the resolve of a city upended by the worst disaster in its history.