California Governor Gavin Newsom (Democratic) announced on Sunday that he has increased the number of California National Guard troops to fight wildfires in Los Angeles.
in statementNewsom said he would add 1,000 more troops to fight the spread of the fire, bringing the total to 2,500 military personnel. Thousands of other first responders are working to contain the blaze as more winds are expected in the area.
“The men and women of the California National Guard have been on the scene since day one, not only fighting fires but also supporting public safety efforts in communities ravaged by the fires,” Newsom said in a statement. “We appreciate their efforts to keep our community safe.”
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for severe fire conditions through Wednesday. At least 16 people have been killed so far and entire neighborhoods have been destroyed.
As of Sunday morning, the Pacific Palisades Fire had burned more than 62 square miles and was 11 percent contained. Containment of the Eaton Fire reached 27 percent. Associated Press Reported.
Canada and Mexico are each sending firefighters to fight the fire.
Newsom declared a state of emergency earlier this week and called for an independent investigation by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, citing concerns and questions being raised about the city's water supply and use.
In one of his final acts as commander in chief, President Biden sent federal aid to California, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency is working on the ground to assist affected communities.
As the fires raged, President-elect Trump harshly criticized Newsom, politicizing the disaster and calling for the governor's resignation.
