Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the deployment of additional firefighting resources in anticipation of extreme fire weather conditions expected in Southern California. This move includes mobilizing over 130 fire engines, water tenders, and aircraft to key areas such as Los Angeles and Ventura counties, which are forecasted to experience high winds and dry weather.
“The recent firestorms in Los Angeles have illustrated the importance of being in the right place at the right time,” stated Governor Newsom. “By strategically placing specialized personnel and equipment in areas prone to wildfires, crews are able to respond faster and more aggressively.”
The state is enhancing its firefighting capabilities by deploying over 790 CAL FIRE personnel along with 76 engines across various counties including Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, San Diego, Riverside, and Kern. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is also prepositioning 98 fire engines, 14 water tenders, eight helicopters, seven dozers, and numerous specialized personnel through the Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), there is a potential for rapid fire spread due to strong wind gusts from Monday afternoon until Tuesday morning in Santa Ana wind-prone areas. Since October, five “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warnings have been issued by NWS.
On January 6th, Governor Newsom directed state departments to coordinate firefighting resources ahead of anticipated firestorms in Los Angeles.
Residents are advised to prepare by creating evacuation plans following local authority guidance and packing essential items. Californians can sign up for emergency alerts at ca.gov/LAFires for timely information on evacuations.
Resources are available for those affected by recent fires through CA.gov/LAfires. Individuals can apply for disaster assistance online or via FEMA’s helpline.
