Firefighters are battling several intense wind-driven wildfires that have destroyed at least 500 structures and driven tens of thousands of people from their homes.
The fires have been playing out since Monday, from Los Angeles up the Pacific coast to Santa Barbara County.
The White House said in a statement: “Today, President Donald Trump declared that an emergency exists in the State of California and ordered federal assistance to supplement state, tribal, and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from wildfires beginning on December 4, 2017, and continuing.
“The president’s action authorises the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, to coordinate all disaster relief efforts.”
The Foreign Office states on its website: “Three large wildfires in Ventura and Los Angeles County are actively destroying homes and other structures.
“Thousands are under mandatory evacuation orders. Several smaller fires have developed in the region and the fire risk remains extremely high.
“The fires are being exacerbated by dry conditions and sustained winds around 35-45 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 80 miles per hour.
“Under these conditions wildfires can spread swiftly, so you should remain cautious. Monitor local media reports and follow the advice of local law enforcement officials, including any evacuation
orders.”
Further information on the Thomas Fire in Ventura County can be found at CA.Gov. Further information on the Creek Fire in Los Angeles County can be found at Los Angeles Fire Department.
