BURSTCalifornia lawmakers are offering their comfort to families shaken by ravaging wildfires in Los Angeles County that have forced thousands to evacuate after flames emerged on Tuesday morning.
“We are closely monitoring the LA fires and are greatly concerned and heartbroken by the devastation,” Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) wrote in a Wednesday post on X.
“I've also been in contact with Chief Buchanan and the @LBFD, who has deployed response units to Pacific Palisades and Pasadena. We are all grateful for local firefighters and first responders from across the county and the state, who are working hard to protect our region,” he wrote in a subsequent statement.
California officials are still investigating the cause of the wildfires that have engulfed homes in the area. State leaders are encouraging their constituents to heed evacuation orders as weather alerts warn of “extreme fire behavior.”
“For residents of my district and around Southern California, the wildfires and wind gusts are extremely dangerous and life-threatening,” Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.) wrote on X with a link to sign up for local alerts.
“Tonight, PLEASE take precautions to evacuate and immediately follow any evacuation orders.”
President Biden touched down in Los Angeles on Monday night hoping to announce new national monuments in the Golden State but was quickly rerouted due to the natural disaster.
Shortly after assessing the damage, he offered federal resources to support response teams on the ground.
“I am being frequently briefed on the wildfires in west Los Angeles. My team and I are in touch with state and local officials, and I have offered any federal assistance that is needed to help suppress the terrible Pacific Palisades fire,” he shared in a Tuesday statement.
“Earlier tonight, FEMA approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to support areas that are impacted and help reimburse the state of California for the immediate firefighting costs. My Administration will do everything it can to support the response.”
Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) shared his appreciation for the daring firefighters who are working to rescue individuals who have been left behind or trapped by the flames.
“Thinking of everyone fleeing their homes tonight from the devastating #PalisadesFire. Grateful to our firefighters and first responders for their tireless work to protect our communities,” the lawmaker said in a Tuesday statement posted to X.
“If you live in or near impacted areas, please heed all warnings and evacuation orders,” he added.
Rep. Young Kim (D-Calif.) echoed his thanks.
“Wildfires don't discriminate – they'll ravage anything in their path. Thank you to @OCFireAuthority for stepping up to support wildfire mitigation efforts,” she wrote on X. “I'm praying for our brave first responders and rallying with all who are impacted.”