Tonight, the critical hours in the wildfire fight in Southern California,

as more dangerous winds threaten to bring new destruction.

Crews racing to contain these historic fires, just as Santa Ana wins,

return with gusts up to 70 miles an hour,

threatening the air assault on the flames and potentially spreading new infernos.

We're on the front lines with the team hunting for hotspots.

The death toll rising to at least 24.

Dozens of arrests made, including looting charges,

and investigators zeroing in on what sparked the largest blaze, the Palisades fire.

Was there a human cause? Plus, the desperate

homeowners who are weapon defending their homes with hoses, the disaster making California's

dire housing crisis even worse. Our team in the fire zone and Al Roper tracking the winds.

Also tonight's the first major movement in months on a possible ceasefire

deal in Gaza. Could an agreement be struck before President Biden leaves office?

A critical week for President-elect Trump and his cabinet nominees, confirmation hearings set to begin.

First up, Pete Hegsett, his pick for defense secretary, the tough questions he faces

about his experience and his conduct. The alarming new study on the rising risk of dementia

and what you can do to minimize your risk. And the emotional reunion in California, the dog,

back together with his owner and the firefighter who saved his life.

This is NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt.

And good evening. I'm Tom Yamas, in for Lester, who was on assignment overseas.

Tonight there is new concern about the fire emergency and threat here in Los Angeles. That's because those Santa Ana

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