The United States President, Joe Biden, has pledged that the federal government will cover 100% of disaster response costs for the next six months to address the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
This announcement, made during a White House briefing, aims to alleviate the financial burden on local authorities and accelerate recovery efforts. 
The funding will support debris removal, temporary shelters, and first responder expenses.
Calling the wildfires’ damage “catastrophic,” Biden assured affected residents, “We are with you. We’re not going anywhere.”
He emphasized that federal resources, including 400 federal firefighters and 30 firefighting planes, are being deployed to Southern California.
Moreover, this increased support surpasses the previously allotted 75% federal disaster funding and the 90% requested by California Governor Gavin Newsom.
The scale of the disaster is staggering, with three fires still raging and forcing 179,000 people to evacuate.
At least 1,300 structures have been destroyed, and 60,000 more remain under threat, particularly in densely populated areas.
Officials fear this could be one of California’s most expensive disasters.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been working to provide immediate relief, including supplies like baby food, and will also focus on rebuilding efforts.
Vice President Kamala Harris, whose Southern California neighborhood was evacuated, described the scene as “apocalyptic.”
She added, “We are literally waiting to see which way the wind blows.”
The fires have already claimed five lives and leveled homes and wildlife habitats.
Biden urged Congress to approve additional funding, stating, “I’m going to make an appeal right now to the United States Congress.
Step up.” Meanwhile, top officials expressed concerns over the mental health toll on displaced residents, highlighting the long-term impact of the tragedy.
This response from the Biden administration highlight its commitment to relief efforts and the welfare of affected communities, showcasing the government’s readiness to support recovery and rebuilding efforts in the wake of these devastating wildfires.
