Out-of-control wildfires are ripping across parts of Los Angeles, leading to at least five deaths, burning down hundreds of buildings, and prompting more than 130,000 people to flee their homes in America's second-largest city.

Wildfires menacing Los Angeles have killed at least 10 people and devoured nearly 10,000 structures, with five fires burning into a third night, as dry desert winds fanning the flames again gathered strength.

Firefighters battled Thursday to control a series of major fires in the Los Angeles area that have killed seven people, burned at least 10,000 structures from the Pacific Coast to Pasadena and sent thousands of people frantically fleeing their homes.

Wildfires in Los Angeles have resulted in 10 deaths and extensive property damage. The Palisades and Eaton fires are among the most destructive, exacerbated by climate change and severe drought conditions.

News Storm Team Meteorologist Chris Bouzakis has a look at what the Santa Ana winds are and why they are helping these fires become so destructive.

Meanwhile, firefighters battled multiple wildfires Thursday that ravaged communities across Los Angeles, destroying more than 10,000 structures.

Two massive wildfires menacing Los Angeles from the east and west were still burning uncontained on Thursday, but a brief respite from the fierce winds that have fanned the flames for two days allowed crews to slow their explosive spread.