California fires live updates: 2 dead in massive, unprecedented blazes
At least two people are dead and many more injured as several fires broke out across Southern California amid historically dry and windy conditions.
Tens of thousands were evacuated as more than 5,000 acres burned in the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles. At least 1,000 structures are estimated to have been destroyed in the fire.
Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire — which broke out miles away from the Palisades Fire, in Altadena — has grown to more than 10,000 acres with 0% containment.
Another blaze, the Hurst Fire, has also erupted and spread northeast of San Fernando, burning at least 500 acres.
Newsom cancels trip to Carter’s funeral
California Gov. Gavin Newsom canceled his trip to Washington D.C., for former President Jimmy Carter’s memorial service amid the continued spread of multiple fires in Southern California.
President Joe Biden spoke to Newsom by phone on Wednesday to “receive the latest update on the wildfires across Los Angeles.” Biden is still expected to get a briefing later from Cal Fire officials.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell also spoke with Newsom to get an update on the wildfires, according to a FEMA spokesperson. FEMA’s regional office in California is in constant communication with California Office of Emergency Services and the agency has deployed a FEMA liaison to their offices as the agency continues to monitor the situation closely.
The regional administrator for FEMA Region IX approved Fire Management Assistance Grants for the Palisades Fire to support the state with the control of the fires.
