A group of Los Angeles residents who stayed behind to defend their homes despite an evacuation order say they are now battling thieves instead of flames.

Heartbroken families, burned-out business owners and beleaguered Los Angeles leaders are beginning to ponder a monumental task: rebuilding what was lost in the Southern California wildfires

Los Angeles officials give update on wildfire response LIVE: Los Angeles officials give update on wildfire response Los Angeles County and City officials provide an update on emergency and recovery efforts following devastating wildfires.

Los Angeles' wildfires have homeowners in Altadena patrolling their own streets to ward off looters, even amid evacuation orders and fiery conditions.

Los Angeles is grappling with devastating fires that have already claimed 24 lives. Extraordinary phenomena accompany the catastrophe. A swirling column of flames was captured on video, with the "fire whirl" circulating on social media.