California’s wildfire crisis exposes a complex web of federal and state coordination, as Governor Gavin Newsom activates emergency protocols while Marines and Navy helicopters remain on standby.
At a Glance
- Governor Newsom announced federal assistance for Los Angeles wildfire survivors
- President Biden declared a Major Disaster, enabling federal aid programs
- California mobilized over 12,000 personnel and 1,660 pieces of firefighting equipment
- The Pentagon is ready with 500 Marines and 10 Navy helicopters, but hasn’t been requested
- Criticism arises over California’s preparedness despite extreme fire warnings
Federal Aid Activated for Wildfire Survivors
In a significant development for those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that survivors can now apply for federal assistance. This aid comes as a result of President Joe Biden’s declaration of a Major Disaster, which has opened the door for various federal programs based on local damage assessments and impacts.
“To the thousands of Californians who are impacted by these unprecedented fires, know that we have your back. Thanks to our strong partnership with the federal government and the President’s swift action, Californians can apply now for federal assistance. Even as we make resources available to help folks recover, we’re still laser-focused on fighting these fires and protecting lives and property,” Governor Gavin Newsom said.
To streamline the process, a new website, CA.gov/LAfires, has been launched. This platform provides wildfire survivors with essential resources and information on how to apply for federal aid. Californians affected by the fires can submit applications for disaster assistance online, by phone, or through the FEMA smartphone app, with support available in over 40 languages.
State Mobilization and Federal Readiness
The state has taken significant steps in response to the crisis. California has mobilized over 12,000 personnel, including firefighters and guard service members, and deployed more than 1,660 pieces of firefighting equipment. Governor Newsom has proclaimed a state of emergency and issued an executive order to support affected communities.
At the federal level, the Department of Defense stands ready to assist. The Pentagon has prepared 500 active-duty Marines and equipment, along with 10 Navy helicopters equipped with water delivery buckets for airdrops. These resources are stationed just 60 miles east of Los Angeles at March Air Reserve Base, a FEMA staging area.
Despite the availability of federal resources, California has not yet requested direct assistance from the Pentagon to combat the Los Angeles fires.
Incredible.
This situation has raised questions about the coordination between federal and state authorities during crisis scenarios.
“So as the state requests resources, as the state of California requests capabilities, we are standing by and ready to support, but we absolutely have to work with the state, and the state and the governor is going to know best on how to use our assets,” Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh explained.
The fires, which began on January 7, have already destroyed over 10,000 homes and buildings in the Los Angeles area. As the crisis unfolds, California officials face criticism for allegedly not preparing adequately despite warnings of extreme fire conditions.