US President Joe Biden expressed deep sorrow on Monday following the tragic loss of 24 lives due to the devastating wildfires that have ravaged southern California, especially in the Los Angeles area.
In an official statement, President Biden said, “Our hearts ache for the 24 innocent souls we have lost in the wildfires across Los Angeles. Jill (Biden) and I pray for them and their loved ones.”
The President acknowledged the severe and ongoing devastation, offering his full support to the firefighting efforts. He emphasized that he has been regularly briefed on the situation and directed federal teams to respond swiftly to any requests for additional resources.
“We are deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the unprecedented ongoing wildfires across Southern California. 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,” Biden’s statement continued. “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.”
As the Eaton Fire and Palisades Fire continue to wreak havoc, Biden’s administration is focused on providing necessary assistance. With strong winds expected to exacerbate the situation, he reaffirmed that his administration would continue to prioritize efforts to support survivors and aid firefighting teams.
“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,” Biden said.
He also praised the firefighters and first responders who have been working tirelessly to save lives, stating, “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.”
According to reports from the New York Post, 24 fatalities have been confirmed, with 16 individuals still unaccounted for. Most of the fatalities occurred in the Eaton Fire, with eight lives claimed in the Palisades Fire.
The fires have displaced nearly 200,000 people and destroyed approximately 39,000 acres of land, a vast area roughly two-and-a-half times the size of Manhattan. The death toll and devastation are expected to increase as firefighting efforts continue.