Arab Weather - The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles swept through many buildings and green spaces, leaving behind huge material and human losses. In the midst of this tragedy, a luxurious $9 million mansion stood as the last standing house, while other multi-million dollar homes turned to ashes.
David Steiner, a 64-year-old retired executive, has revealed the harrowing moments he experienced when he thought his luxury home was going to burn down, after watching videos showing flames engulfing his property and the homes of his neighbors.
Steiner said:
"It's a miracle, miracles never stop."
He thought it was all over, but the surprise was that the house was safe, as he received calls and pictures showing the three-story white palace standing tall amidst the charred rubble.
Steiner attributes the house's resilience to its unique engineering design, designed to withstand earthquakes and other disasters. The house is made of stucco and stone, with a fire-resistant roof and foundations that extend into deep rock to stabilize it against powerful waves crashing into the sea wall.
According to a report by Agence France-Presse, the disaster killed 11 people and destroyed around 10,000 buildings. Authorities forced the evacuation of 180,000 people, and economic losses are estimated at $150 billion, making it one of the costliest disasters in US history.
The surviving home has become a symbol of hope in the face of disaster, with some describing it as a “beacon in the dark.” The story of how the mansion survived highlights the importance of disaster-resistant engineering, which can be the difference between life and death in times of crisis.
See also:
Toxic smoke from wildfires blankets Los Angeles skies, authorities issue urgent warning
No water system in the world can handle the Los Angeles fires.
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