Los Angeles ‘not prepared’ for size, growth of raging wildfires: Fire chief [Video]

Fire departments in Los Angeles have long had to deal with wildfires crouching close to homes and businesses.

But the ongoing Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire and Hurst Fire, which have engulfed over 16,000 acres as of Wednesday afternoon, have left first responders stretched thin, according to Anthony C. Marrone, the fire chief of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department.

“LA County and all 29 fire departments in our county are not prepared for this type of widespread disaster,” he said during a news conference Wednesday morning.

PHOTOS: Powerful images show destruction from deadly Southern California fires

“The LA County Fire Department was prepared for one or two major brush fires, but not four, especially given the sustained winds and low abilities,” he added. As of Wednesday afternoon, there were wildfires burning in Los Angeles county, officials said.

Environmental experts who …