Los Angeles Wildfires Prompt Mass Evacuations, Federal Aid

Wildfires raging across Los Angeles County have forced over 130,000 residents to evacuate, destroyed thousands of structures, and claimed at least five lives, officials confirmed Thursday. The fires, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, have burned nearly 30,000 acres, with the Palisades and Eaton fires remaining 0% contained.

President Joe Biden approved California’s request for a major disaster declaration, committing federal resources to cover 100% of response costs for the next 180 days. “To the families who have been impacted by this disaster, you’re living through a nightmare,” Biden said during a press conference. “I promise you we’re going to help you get through this and eventually recover and rebuild.”

California Gov. Gavin Newsom faced criticism from residents, including a mother who confronted him about her daughter’s school burning down. “I live here, governor. That was my daughter’s school. Please tell me what you’re going to do,” she pleaded. Newsom assured her he was in contact with President Biden to secure aid.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who returned from a trip to Ghana as the fires broke out, defended her administration’s response. “My focus right now is on saving lives and homes,” Bass said during a press conference. She also addressed criticism over $17 million in budget cuts to the Los Angeles Fire Department, stating the reductions did not impact the current crisis.

Firefighters, aided by over 7,500 personnel and 1,100 fire engines, continue to battle the blazes. The California National Guard has deployed 600 service members, though aerial firefighting efforts have been hampered by high winds. U.S. Northern Command has also activated eight C-130 aircraft equipped with firefighting systems to assist.

Residents expressed frustration over the lack of preparedness, particularly the failure of fire hydrants to function due to power shutoffs. “I had to fill up the hydrants myself,” one resident told Newsom. The fires have also exposed challenges with insurance coverage, as major providers like State Farm have scaled back policies in high-risk areas.

As the fires continue to burn, officials warn of potential looting in evacuated areas. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced 20 arrests for looting and implemented a 24/7 enforcement policy in affected zones. “If you are in one of these areas and you do not belong there, you are going to be subject to arrest,” Luna said.

The devastation has drawn national attention, with celebrities and public figures criticizing state leadership. Actor Zachary Levi called the situation “criminally negligent,” while former President Donald Trump blamed “gross incompetence” by Newsom and Bass. Meanwhile, Elon Musk announced that SpaceX‘s Starlink internet service would provide connectivity to impacted areas.

As the region braces for more challenges, officials urge residents to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders. “This is an unprecedented historic firestorm,” Bass said. “But we are all hands on deck.”