Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Prepares Military Deployment to Contain Los Angeles Wildfires
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell stated on Sunday that the U.S. military is prepared to deploy to help contain the devastating wildfires that have affected Los Angeles. Criswell emphasized that the military personnel are on a “prepare to deploy” order and are ready to support the firefighting effort.
Military Assistance
According to the Department of Defense, 500 active duty Marines and 10 Naval helicopters are ready to be deployed to support the firefighting effort. Criswell explained that the incident commanders at each command post will determine the specific needs and resources required to contain the fire.
Red Flag Warnings and Wind Concerns
Criswell expressed her biggest concern that Los Angeles is still in a dangerous situation, with red flag warnings reissued and strong gusts of wind expected to spread the wildfires further in the next 48 hours. California Gov. Gavin Newsom also emphasized the importance of wind, stating that 50-plus mile-an-hour gusts are expected in the next two days, which could spread the fires to new areas.
Preparations and Evacuations
Criswell warned affected Los Angeles residents against returning to their homes, citing the potential dangers of wind and the unpredictable nature of the fires. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing life safety, not just for residents but also for firefighters. Newsom also emphasized the need for residents to listen to local officials and stay safe.
FEMA’s Role
Criswell stated that FEMA’s role is to support the incident commanders and provide resources as needed. She emphasized that the agency is not prepared to handle the fires on its own but rather to augment the efforts of local and state authorities.
Containment Efforts
The Eaton fire is 27% contained, while the Palisades fire remains at 11% containment. Criswell emphasized the challenges posed by the fires, including the need to secure the perimeter and save homes while dealing with unpredictable winds.
Conclusion
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has emphasized the importance of prioritizing life safety and containing the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The U.S. military is prepared to deploy to support the firefighting effort, and residents are urged to listen to local officials and stay safe.
FAQs
Q: Why is the U.S. military prepared to deploy to contain the wildfires?
A: The U.S. military is prepared to deploy to support the firefighting effort, with 500 active duty Marines and 10 Naval helicopters ready to be deployed.
Q: What are the biggest concerns regarding the wildfires?
A: The biggest concerns are the unpredictable winds and the potential for the fires to spread to new areas.
Q: Why are residents being urged not to return to their homes?
A: Residents are being urged not to return to their homes due to the potential dangers of wind and the unpredictable nature of the fires.
Q: What is FEMA’s role in containing the wildfires?
A: FEMA’s role is to support the incident commanders and provide resources as needed to augment the efforts of local and state authorities.