Firefighters battling devastating wildfires in Southern California hope a reprieve from powerful winds this weekend can help them contain the disaster that has scorched more than 35,000 acres and killed at least 11 people.

It is expected to take some time to determine the death toll from this week's Los Angeles firestorms. Officials confirmed 10 people died in the Eaton and Palisades fires, but Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna said that number is likely to rise.

As 11 are confirmed dead, Gavin Newsom orders an independent investigation into the water supply issue that hampered fire crews.

The death toll from the raging wildfires in Southern California has gone up to 11 people, according to a Friday update from the County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner (DME). Five fire-related deaths occurred because of the Palisades Fire while six were related to the Eaton Fire.