How to help victims of California wildfires affecting Los Angeles County
CBSN
Wildfires in the Los Angeles area burned more than 26,000 acres, damaged or destroyed more than 1,000 structures and forced tens of thousands from their homes by Wednesday evening. At least five people are dead, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The Palisades, Eaton and Hurst fires broke out Tuesday followed by the Woodley and Lidia fires Wednesday, all fueled by powerful winds.
President Biden approved a major disaster declaration for California after meeting with Gov. Gavin Newsom and fire officials Wednesday. Humanitarian groups and nonprofit organizations are working to provide food, water, shelter and other supplies to people impacted by the fires. Those needing recovery assistance can apply with the Federal Emergency Management Agency at DisasterAssistance.gov.
CBS News Los Angeles has partnered with the American Red Cross to support the communities in need. The organization said it is staffing evacuation centers and providing supplies.
At least five wildfires are ravaging Southern California, and the three largest — which are at 0% containment — have already killed at least two people, burned thousands of acres and prompted the evacuation of about 70,000 residents. Santa Ana winds coupled with dry conditions have created the perfect storm for the fires to spread.
Wildfires raged across Southern California on Wednesday, leaving at least two people dead and prompting thousands of evacuations as blazes closed in on Los Angeles neighborhoods like the Pacific Palisades and residents hurried to escape. Maps of the region show where the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire and others are engulfing thousands of acres of land.