“Hearts Ache”: President Biden Responds to California Wildfires Claiming 24 Lives
Biden assured the nation that his administration is closely monitoring the situation.
California Wildfires latest News: US President Joe Biden has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of 24 lives due to devastating wildfires in southern California, particularly in Los Angeles.
“Our hearts ache for the 24 innocent souls we have lost in the wildfires across Los Angeles. Jill and I pray for them and their loved ones,” President Biden said in a statement on Monday.
Acknowledging the ongoing devastation, Biden assured the nation that his administration is closely monitoring the situation and has committed to providing robust federal assistance to California.
“I am being frequently briefed on intensive efforts to suppress the wildfires across Los Angeles and have directed our team to respond promptly to any request for additional federal firefighting assistance. At my direction, hundreds of federal personnel, along with aerial and ground support, have been dispatched to aid the firefighting efforts and assist affected communities,” the statement read.
Biden also emphasized that his administration is committed to supporting survivors and ramping up resources as conditions worsen, noting that increasing winds could exacerbate the fires.
“My administration remains laser-focused on helping survivors, and we will continue to use every tool available to support the urgent firefight as the winds are projected to increase,” he said.
He extended gratitude to the firefighters and first responders battling the flames and saving lives. “To the brave firefighters and first responders working day and night to suppress these fires and save lives: our nation is grateful. You represent the best of America, and we are in your debt,” Biden said.
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, the death toll from the wildfires has risen to 24, with 16 individuals still missing as of Sunday. The Eaton Fire accounted for most fatalities, while the Palisades Fire claimed eight lives, The New York Post reported.
The wildfires have also displaced nearly 200,000 residents and destroyed approximately 39,000 acres—an area nearly two-and-a-half times the size of Manhattan.