California fire officials give update on Woolsey wildfire
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday
Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US
The total death toll from wildfires across California has risen to 44, after 13 more people were found dead in what is now the deadliest single fire in state history.
The blaze dubbed Camp Fire in northern California has incinerated more than 7,100 homes and businesses - particularly in the town of Paradise. Its death toll exceeds that of the Griffith Park Fire in 1933, the deadliest wildfire on record in California. At least 228 people were still missing, according to Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea.
Speaking on CNN, Mr Honea said that while he holds out hope that many people listed as missing will turn up safe, “given what we’ve dealt with so far with casualties as a result of this fire, I have concerns that it [the death toll] will rise”.
Late on Monday, President Donald Trump approved a major disaster declaration for the state, which will allow it to access more federal funds. Mr Trump said he "wanted to respond quickly", although calls for the declaration have been coming for a number of days.
Hundreds of thousands of evacuation orders have been issued, while countless residents have shared images online of missing loved ones, begging people to help them find displaced relatives and friends.
In southern California, the Woolsey Fire has scorched at least 91,000 acres and destroyed 370 structures. At least two people have died in that fire, and more than 57,000 buildings still at risk.
LA sheriff’s department chief John Benedict shared concerns for the hundreds of missing victims in California’s deadly fires, saying officials are “working tirelessly” to reunite families with their loved ones and pets.
“The winds are here right now and they’re anticipated to stay until Tuesday,” he added, saying the region was in “red flag warnings.” The police chief warned drivers in vehicles to be wary of any hazards on the road.
Police chief John Benedict said LAPD was working with local animal control and volunteers to rescue animals and house them in areas where they can be safely fed. The AV fair grounds is a location where folks can bring pets in need of assistance.
Evacuations remain in effect for those impacted by the Woolsey Fire, with police chief Benedict saying some areas “have not been rendered safe, or safe even for first responders in some cases.”
“The region is still unstable and things can still happen,” Mr Kicker said, calling for “continued patience” in the wake of California deadly and destructive fires.
Cal Fire’s chief said red flag conditions would remain in many areas until Tuesday, noting a reduction of winds was expected later this afternoon that could potentially reduce the increasing size of the wildfires.
189 fire engines are coming to the state from across the country, with an additional 55 arriving from Texas, in order to help deal with existing fires and new starts, officials said.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies