Golden State Today

California is facing an unprecedented challenge as more than 7,500 firefighting and emergency personnel have been deployed to combat wildfires in Southern California. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment of these resources as the state grapples with fires exacerbated by dangerous winds and dry conditions.

In response to the crisis, President Joe Biden approved a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration at Governor Newsom's request. This federal support aims to bolster ongoing efforts to manage the Hurst, Eaton, and Palisades Fires. Additionally, Governor Newsom declared a state of emergency on Tuesday.

"We are putting all available resources behind fighting these wildfires, including leveraging local and federal assets," said Governor Gavin Newsom. "California has thousands of boots on the ground working to combat these fires. The state is leaving no stone unturned to protect California communities."

The state's response involves various departments and agencies:

- The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) has activated the State Operations Center and deployed over 1,000 firefighters and 260 fire engines through its Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System. Cal OES has also secured commitments for additional fire engines from neighboring states under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.

- The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) has deployed more than 4,700 firefighting personnel along with air assets including six air tankers and 31 helicopters.

- The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has mobilized 600 personnel to address debris clearance and traffic equipment power outages.

- The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has embedded 19 officials with incident command teams.

- The California National Guard (Cal Guard) has dispatched over 600 service members along with aircraft for firefighting operations.

- The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) is collaborating with Los Angeles County to provide critical safety net benefits to residents affected by the fires. Four shelters are currently open, housing approximately 500 people.

- The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is coordinating public health emergency responses through its Medical Health Coordination Center.

For more information on active emergencies in California, visit ready.ca.gov.