LOS ANGELES, California: Los Angeles County, Pasadena, and other public agencies have sued Edison International and its subsidiary, Southern California Edison, claiming the companies helped cause one of California's worst wildfires.

The Eaton Fire started in early January in the foothills east of Los Angeles. It burned over 14,000 acres—nearly the size of Manhattan—and caused many deaths. Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the fire.

Los Angeles County, Pasadena, Sierra Madre, and other agencies are seeking compensation for damage to public land and infrastructure. Attorney Ed Diab, representing the agencies, said the lawsuits aim to hold Edison accountable and recover taxpayer resources lost in the fire.

The lawsuits include reports and photos showing a fire at the base of an Edison transmission tower before strong winds spread the flames. Edison International said it is reviewing the claims and will respond legally.

Southern California Edison said it is too early to estimate costs related to the fire. While the total damage is still being assessed, officials expect losses to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. In a financial report, Edison International stated it has not yet determined if its equipment was involved.