LOS ANGELES – (INT) – Fire fighters have been short-handed by the ferocity of the fast-moving wildfires. Local first responders are using extensive state and local resources to fight the fires. Government leaders are stepping up their response.

A Federal major disaster declaration has been issued for Los Angeles County. It includes a Fire Management Assistance Grant. It will help improve coordination and provide California with essential assistance and recovery resources.

In a bipartisan action, California lawmakers in Washington said Wednesday that the wildfires “have damaged — and continue to threaten — federal and state highways and local roads, critical infrastructure, homes, and buildings.”

At last five lives have been lost.

Story Date: January 12, 2025