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The United States’ outgoing President Joe Biden has amended the disaster declaration for the state of California following wildfires and straight-line winds that destroyed a number of homes and leaving thousand stranded.
Biden made additional disaster assistance available to the State of California by authorizing an increase in the level of Federal funding for emergency work undertaken in the State of California as a result of wildfires and straight-line winds beginning on January 7, 2025, and continuing.
The President has approved Federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance have been increased to 100 percent of the total eligible costs for a period of 180 days of the State’s choosing within the first 270 days from the start of the incident period.
Joe Biden has also extended his heartfelt messages to the people of Los Angeles who were also affected by wildfires and lives that were lost.
“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 and unique federal aerial and ground support have been sent to California to support the firefighting efforts and help communities in need. 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,” said Biden.
“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,” he concluded.
Thus far, the death toll in Los Angeles stands at 24 while rescue services are trying by all means to fight the fire.
