The release of Mohammad Abedini follows Iran's recent freeing of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, sparking speculation that Sala may have been a bargaining chip.

In a city prone to large natural disasters, L.A. firefighters are widely considered to be among the best in the business at knocking down urban wildfires. But in the extreme conditions lately, experts say little can be done even to slow these modern fires.

LA County's fire chief said people in evacuated areas won't be able to return home until at least Thursday due to the next round of fire danger. Meanwhile, authorities are investigating more deaths.