Governor Newsom orders deployment of firefighting resources ahead of weather threats

At the direction of Governor Gavin Newsom, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) has approved the predeployment of fire and rescue resources in response to multiple hazards threatening parts of California. The move includes sending 10 fire engines, 10 incident management personnel, two dispatchers, one handcrew, one water tender, one bulldozer, and one unmanned aerial system with an operator.

These resources will be sent to Nevada County due to Critical Fire Weather and Red Flag Warnings. In San Bernardino County, teams are being positioned ahead of expected heavy rainfall that could cause mud and debris flows in areas affected by the Line and Bridge Fire burn scars. The National Weather Service has issued Flood Watches for Southern California regions including San Bernardino, Riverside, and San Diego counties.

Local fire agencies assess when their communities may need additional support and request help from the state. Staging locations and assignments are coordinated by local officials.

“These efforts ensure that resources are ready to respond quickly, minimizing the potential impact of new fires and other critical incidents. This proactive approach has proven to be a critical component of California’s emergency response strategy, reducing response times and ensuring resources are available when they are needed most. The preposition program is in addition to California’s Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System, which remains available for emergency response support throughout the state,” according to Cal OES.

Residents have been urged to remain alert during these conditions. Authorities recommend preparing a wildfire action plan that includes evacuation routes and packing a go-bag with essentials. Signing up for local emergency alerts is also advised so residents can stay informed about changing conditions. People are reminded not to drive through flooded roadways; as little as 12 inches of water can make a vehicle float.

More information on fire safety and general preparedness is available at Ready.ca.gov.