More than a week into what could be the costliest wildfires in U.S. history, weary and anxious Los Angeles-area residents are hoping for a favorable shift in the winds and an end to the constant fear that their lives might be further upended.

Fierce wildfires are raging in the Los Angeles area, fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds, sending residents fleeing from burning homes through flames, ferocious winds and towering clouds of smoke.

Cleanup is underway after a strong storm system spawned hail, rain, high winds and tornadoes across the southern U.S. over the weekend.