Local groups and state task force teams from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the California Department of Conservation, and the California Governor’s Office are using advanced technology to map landslide and flood risks.
On Friday, the California Natural Resources Agency announced on social media that firefighting crews are working to increase containment and prevent new fires.
The Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate highlights innovative wildfire technologies like advanced sensors and breathable fire respirators for firefighters.
Plus, they utilize cutting-edge alerts, warnings, and data analytics to enhance safety and responsiveness in wildfire situations. Exciting advancements for a safer future!
In 2023, the University of California San Diego launched ALERTCalifornia, a public safety program that helps scientists undertake advanced data collection and processing to gain a better understanding of natural disasters’ long-term impacts on air quality, water quality, soil quality and human health in California.
Earlier this week, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection shared a graphic reflecting data as of January 15, 2025. Twelve states, including Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, the Dakotas, Arizona, Wyoming, New Mexico, Texas, Canada, and Mexico, have provided mutual aid to assist with firefighting efforts.
CAL FIRE expressed gratitude for the “incredible support” from state, tribal, federal, and international partners and extended special thanks to the Los Angeles community and individuals around the world who have stepped forward to help. “Your overwhelming unity exemplifies the power of coming together in the face of one of California’s most devastating natural disasters.”
On January 13, Governor Gavin Newsom announced on social media that, due to the dangerous winds expected to pick up, there were plans to preposition hundreds of firefighting personnel and equipment across Southern California.
This included the deployment of more than 300 firefighters, in addition to the 15,000 already on the ground in Los Angeles.
The California National Guard reported that over 1,000 members have been called to support public safety efforts in communities devastated by the Los Angeles fires.
CAL FIRE also directed California National Guard service members to maintain control lines to prevent reignition as red flag warnings persist.
On January 14, Newsom reported that, thanks to the personnel and equipment prepositioning, 11 new fires that broke out overnight were quickly extinguished, including the Auto Fire in Ventura County.
Local landmarks affected by the rapidly spreading fire include the Bunny Museum, a junk farm in Altadena housing vintage cars, trailers, and movie memorabilia; a community theater in Pacific Palisades; an archive serving as the headquarters for a groundbreaking composer’s music publishing company; a ranch founded over 70 years ago in the Altadena area; a garage in Altadena containing a massive collection of sacred texts and commentaries on world religions; a roadside seafood shack; the Will Rogers house; and a diner that has been in operation for 70 years.
According to the Wildfire Alliance, these fires are projected to be the most destructive in the city’s history, with estimated economic losses approaching $250 billion.
A law firm announced on Friday that Milberg and its affiliates are pursuing claims on behalf of California individuals, homeowners, and business owners affected by the surge of destructive wildfires that began on January 7, 2025.
Tragically, more than ten California residents have lost their lives, and over 100,000 residents have been forced to evacuate the greater Southern California area.
Five wildfires across Los Angeles have scorched over 40,000 acres, resulting in burned structures, destroyed businesses, and significant property losses.
Additionally, pollution from wildfire smoke can rise up to 14 miles into the air and rapidly disperse dangerous toxins beyond official evacuation zones.
CAL FIRE and the entire response team are deeply grateful for the incredible support we've received from our state, federal, international, and tribal partners. Special thanks also go to the Los Angeles community and individuals around the world who have stepped forward to offer… pic.twitter.com/ztRI9FhL5p
— CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) January 15, 2025
As dangerous winds are expected to pick up, we’re prepositioning hundreds of firefighting personnel and equipment across SoCal.
This includes deploying 300+ additional firefighters, adding to the 15,000+ already on the ground in LA. pic.twitter.com/9BS4V59jlp
— Governor Newsom (@CAgovernor) January 14, 2025
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