A series of rocket attacks hit Los Angeles on Tuesday, triggering explosions, fires, and casualties across residential and commercial neighborhoods, authorities said.
Witnesses reported hearing sudden loud blasts that erupted without warning, sending residents fleeing their homes and workplaces. Emergency responders arrived within minutes to begin search and rescue operations across multiple affected blocks.
What Happened
A barrage of rockets struck buildings and infrastructure across several neighborhoods, triggering fires that spread rapidly through residential areas. Eyewitnesses described sudden loud blasts and the sound of windows shattering as buildings shook from the impact.
Many residents reported hearing a high-pitched sound moments before the explosions began. The initial strikes triggered a series of secondary explosions as fires spread through damaged structures and debris.
Casualties and Response
Local authorities confirmed fatalities in the attack, though exact numbers remained unclear as rescue efforts continued Tuesday evening. Many others sustained injuries including burns, blast trauma, and respiratory issues from the explosions.
Medical teams worked to treat the influx of patients as firefighters and rescue crews searched through collapsed buildings. Emergency responders faced challenging conditions, with roads blocked by wreckage and structural collapse posing ongoing dangers to rescue workers.
Ongoing Operations
Search and rescue teams continued working through damaged structures to locate survivors trapped beneath rubble. Authorities warned residents about risks from damaged buildings and unexploded ordnance in the impact zones.
Officials urged people to remain indoors in secure shelters and avoid affected areas during ongoing operations. Aid agencies began assessing immediate needs for medical supplies, shelter, and psychological support to displaced residents.
Local communities have begun helping those affected, with volunteers distributing essential supplies to displaced families. Officials cautioned that casualty numbers could rise as rescue teams gained better access to heavily impacted zones.
This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting team contributed to this report.