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Southern California Edison Equipment Linked to 800-Acre Hurst Fire
SCE disclosed that failed hardware on their transmission tower likely caused the Hurst Fire in Sylmar last month, burning 800 acres and damaging two homes. The utility is preserving evidence while investigations continue into this and other regional fires.
Newsom and Trump Join Forces to Secure LA Wildfire Disaster Aid
California Governor Gavin Newsom and President Trump demonstrate bipartisan cooperation in Washington DC meetings to obtain federal assistance for Los Angeles firestorm survivors. The high-level discussions involved Congressional leaders from both parties and focused on supporting communities devastated by recent Southern California wildfires.
Trump Executive Orders Threaten California Research Funding and Academic Freedom
President Trump's recent executive orders targeting DEI initiatives and specific research areas have thrown California's academic institutions into turmoil, disrupting federal grants and scientific work. The National Science Foundation's funding freeze and broad review of existing grants has created widespread uncertainty across research fields.
Ancient Giants Stand Strong: How LA's Trees Defied Devastating Fires
In a remarkable display of natural resilience, numerous large trees survived intense fires that destroyed buildings across Los Angeles in 2025. Their survival, attributed to natural adaptations and moisture content, offers valuable lessons for future fire preparedness.
Critical Flaws in Fire Alert System Led to Deadly Altadena Inferno
After January fires claimed 17 lives in Altadena due to delayed evacuation alerts, Cal Fire is overhauling its hazard mapping system. Multiple investigations are examining emergency response failures, including problematic alert software and infrastructure issues that hampered firefighting efforts.
California Attorney General Issues Warning Over Federal Employee Buyout Program
Attorney General Rob Bonta cautions 150,000 California federal employees about a controversial Trump administration buyout program promising pay and benefits through September 2025. Legal experts and unions raise concerns about the program's legitimacy and potential violations of federal regulations.
Emergency Food Aid Program Launched for Los Angeles Wildfire Victims
Governor Newsom announces Disaster CalFresh program offering emergency food assistance to families affected by recent Los Angeles County wildfires. Eligible residents can receive substantial one-time benefits, with applications opening February 10th for those impacted by the January 2025 fires.
Southern California's Rain Won't Guarantee End to Fire Season, Experts Warn
Back-to-back atmospheric river storms will bring much-needed rain to Los Angeles County this week, but experts caution it may not end fire risks. Native vegetation needs 3-6 weeks to properly absorb moisture, while Santa Ana winds could soon return to heighten dangers.
TB Cases Trigger Health Alerts at Schools in Michigan and California
Health officials are investigating tuberculosis cases at high schools in Kalamazoo County and San Diego, implementing testing and prevention measures. San Diego reports highest TB numbers in 5 years with 243 cases in 2023, while both regions work to protect student and staff health.
