Biden Calls LA Wildfires the Most Devastating in California’s History

Washington, D.C.: U.S. President Joe Biden described the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles as the worst in California’s history, pledging additional federal support to combat the disaster. Speaking during a special meeting at the White House on Thursday, Biden called the fires “the most widespread and devastating in California’s history.”

He acknowledged the immense suffering of Los Angeles residents, stating they were “living through a nightmare,” and praised the firefighters as “heroes” for their bravery in battling the flames.

To focus on the crisis, Biden canceled a planned trip to Rome, choosing to stay in Washington and oversee the federal response to the fires, which have already claimed at least five lives. At the request of California Governor Gavin Newsom, Biden announced that the federal government would cover 100% of the disaster-related costs for the first 180 days.

As part of the federal response, Biden authorized the deployment of 400 federal firefighters, 30 firefighting planes and helicopters, and eight large aircraft from the Pentagon. Additionally, 500 wildfire clearance personnel will be sent to assist in Los Angeles.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who is from California, described the fires as “apocalyptic” and expressed concern over reports of insurance companies canceling policies for families who lost their homes.

Biden also addressed misinformation from incoming president Donald Trump, who claimed a water shortage was hampering firefighting efforts. Biden clarified that power outages, caused by utility companies shutting down electricity to prevent faulty lines from sparking new fires, had disrupted water pumps.

Trump, set to begin his second term on January 20, has used the wildfires to criticize Biden and Newsom, accusing them of poor disaster management.

The Los Angeles fires have highlighted the urgent need for federal and state collaboration, as Biden’s administration continues efforts to bring relief to affected communities and prevent further devastation.