President Biden has approved Governor Gavin Newsom's request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration to assist with the ongoing wildfire crisis in Los Angeles. The declaration came following a joint briefing with state and local emergency officials at a Santa Monica fire station, where both leaders received updates on the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires.
The federal declaration unlocks critical funding and resources to support emergency response efforts. Local governments will receive assistance for emergency operations, while affected residents and businesses can access Individual Assistance programs offering temporary housing and financial support for property losses.
"The situation in Los Angeles is highly dangerous and rapidly evolving," said Governor Newsom, urging Southern California residents to heed evacuation orders from local authorities without delay.
The U.S. Forest Service has deployed substantial resources, including five large air tankers, ten helicopters, and dozens of fire engines to combat the blazes. Additionally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved three Fire Management Assistance Grants for the affected areas to maintain essential firefighting resources.
The state began preparing for this emergency over the weekend, strategically positioning resources by Sunday. After personally assessing the situation in Pacific Palisades and meeting with fire officials, Governor Newsom declared a state of emergency to provide additional support to impacted communities.
The coordinated response demonstrates swift cooperation between local, state, and federal agencies as they work to protect Los Angeles residents and contain the spreading fires.