Los Angeles Wildfires Leave Trail of Devastation, Death and Destruction in Their Wake

A powerful storm system fueled devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area, forcing thousands to evacuate their homes as at least ten people lost their lives in the blaze. The Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, is one of several major wildfires still uncontained, with officials warning that it may take time to determine the actual number of fatalities.

In another development, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday dubbed President-elect Donald Trump's repeated remarks about annexing Canada into the United States as a "distraction" from the consequences of his 25% tariff threats. The U.S. President-elect's comments were seen as an attempt to downplay the economic implications of the tariffs, which have already led to significant trade tensions between the two countries.

Meanwhile, in a different corner of India, Delhi is bracing for heavy rain this weekend, with the Delhi Meteorological Centre predicting rainfall on both Saturday and Sunday. The city, still reeling from a recent cold wave phenomenon that has battered the country's capital over the past few days, can expect a welcome respite from the chill.

On a disturbing note, women in India have taken to social media to criticize L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan for his allegedly misogynistic comment, which was perceived as making a leering gesture at his wife during a public function. Despite facing backlash, the corporation has come out in support of its boss, defending his demands for a 90-hour workweek, sparking debate over work-life balance.

These are the top stories we bring you today in our Afternoon Digest.

[Image: Reuters]