Hannah Parry

By Hannah Parry

Associate News Editor

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President Donald Trump has threatened to withhold federal aid from wildfire-ravaged California if the state does not introduce voter I.D.

"I want to see two things in Los Angeles; voter ID, so that the people have a chance to vote, and I want to see the water be released and come down into Los Angeles and throughout the state," Trump told reporters when asked if he would withhold federal aid from California unless they meet certain conditions.

"Those are the two things, after that, I will be the greatest president that California has ever seen."

Trump was speaking ahead of his visit to California this afternoon, even as new blazes this week sparked evacuations across San Diego.

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, said he still hadn't spoken with Trump since inviting him to the state earlier this month, but his office told Newsweek, "We are glad President Trump accepted the Governor's invitation to come to Los Angeles."

The governor, who has urged the president not to "politicize" the deadly fires, said he is still planning to show up at the airport for a customary greeting of the president.

What to know

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Jan 24, 2025 at 06:23 PM EST

WATCH: Moment Gavin Newsom signs $2.5 billion package to help rebuild Los Angeles

Jan 24, 2025 at 06:18 PM EST

New evacuation orders issued for San Diego

New evacuation orders have been issued for San Diego as the Border fire burns through 5,389 acres.

Evacuation Orders:

Zones: SDC-2389A, SDC-2464, SDC-2543.

Evacuation Warnings:

Zones: SDC-2389B, SDC-2461, SDC-2462, SDC-2463, SDC-2541, SDC-2542, SDC-2544, SDC-2466, SDC-2465, SDC-2390, SDC-2545

An overnight shelter is now open at:

A temporary Evacuation Point is open at:

The Temporary Evacuation Point at Regal Edwards Cinemas Rancho, San Diego is being closed.

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Jan 24, 2025 at 06:08 PM EST

Fire update as two of SoCal wildfires are 100% contained

Sepulveda and Gilman Fires are now 100% contained, according to data from Cal Fire. Several of the other wildfires are also close to containment:

Jan 24, 2025 at 05:45 PM EST

City of Chula Vista shuts parks, pools and recreation centers over poor air quality

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Jan 24, 2025 at 05:28 PM EST

Gavin Newsom pledges aid will not be ‘held up by bureaucracy’

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Jan 24, 2025 at 05:15 PM EST

New weather maps show Southern California to finally receive rain

Southern California is finally set to receive some rain this weekend, according to new maps from the National Weather Service (NWS).

"Though elevated fire weather conditions continue in southern California today, precipitation is expected to bring relief Saturday into Sunday," the NWS said in a post on X.

The rain will come as a relief after weeks of extremely dry weather has created a tinderbox for wildfires.

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Jan 24, 2025 at 05:03 PM EST

Palisades resident says he’s glad Trump is in office, supports withholding aid as ‘negotiation’ tactic

A Pacific Palisades resident said today that he was glad Donald Trump was back in office, and said he supports the president's decision to withhold federal disaster aid to California as a "negotiation point."

Ron Flury, who has lived in the Pacific Palisades for 25 years, said he has lost four homes in the L.A. fires. His only surviving property is still under construction.

"I'm hoping he will help us build back, and I think it will be better than ever but will take awhile," Flury said, adding that now Trump was in office, "at least something will happen now."

Flury said that he supported Trump's decision with withhold aid until California introduces voter I.D. and changes its water policy.

"Someone needs to force [Newsom] to actually follow through and do the things he should be doing," Flury said. "And that's what Trump is doing, it's a negotiation point."

Jan 24, 2025 at 04:41 PM EST

Weekend storm may finally bring relief to fire-ravaged California

Meteorologists have forecast a weekend storm may finally bring rain and relief to fire-ravaged California.

"Just about every location in coastal Southern California, as well as the Southern California mountains, should at least get in on some showers this weekend," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dave Houk said.

"Most coastal areas have the potential to pick up 0.25 to 0.50 of an inch of rain, and some of the foothills and lower mountainsides could pick up 1 inch to 1.5 inches," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Heather Zehr added.

Sunday evening is expected to receive the heaviest rainfall, while some mountainous regions, such as the crest of Tejon Pass, may receive several inches of snow.

The rain should help alleviate the bone-dry conditions that have helped spread multiple wildfires across the region this month.

Jan 24, 2025 at 04:22 PM EST

Nancy Pelosi calls out Trump for putting conditions on California aid

House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi

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Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who hails from California, has slammed Donald Trump for putting conditions on federal aid to California after the wildfires.

Trump said earlier today that he would withhold aid until the state introduced voter I.D. and followed the president's recommendations on water management.

But Pelosi accused Trump of using the "urgently-needed" aid for families as a "pawn for political games."

"We must work together to deliver relief aid for all Americans impacted by natural disasters across the country, including for Californians to rebuild and recover from the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles," she said.

"Urgently-needed assistance for families and communities ravaged by natural disasters should never be used as a pawn for political games," she added.

Jan 24, 2025 at 04:11 PM EST

California Border Fire map: Blaze moving toward Homeland Security offices

CAL FIRE Map Border Fire Blaze

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The recently ignited Border fire has already surpassed 4,200 acres in size and is inching toward two U.S. Border Patrol offices near the active edge of the blaze in San Diego County.

The Border fire ignited on Thursday afternoon and quickly grew to 4,250 acres.

As of Friday at 1:40 p.m. Eastern time, the fire was 10 percent contained. It is burning in a wilderness area. No structures are threatened, but Fire Captain Robert Johnson with Cal Fire San Diego told Newsweek the fire was spreading at a moderate rate.

The fire's most active flank is on its northern boundary near the Otay Lakes Road area. Johnson said many fire crews are in that area.

The fire is moving toward the north and northeast. Currently, the evacuation orders stop at State Road 94, meaning the U.S. Border Patrol Station in Jamul, California, and the Brown Field Border Patrol Station in Dulzura, California, are just outside the orders' bounds.

However, as the fire continues to grow, that could change.

The evacuation orders, which are a lawful mandate to leave because of the immediate threat to life, are in place from roughly Otay Lakes Road to the north and Marron Valley Road to the east.

Evacuation warnings, in which there is a potential threat to life or property, spread farther to the north and west of the fire.

Jan 24, 2025 at 03:58 PM EST

Preparing for wildfires: Essential emergency tips

In the middle of these wildfires in California, it's crucial to know what's coming and prepare in advance to protect yourself and your family. The American Red Cross recommends the following:

Gather essential supplies and organize them into two kits:

Ensure you have a month's worth of medication in a child-proof container and keep important personal, financial, and medical records safe.

Staying Connected
During a wildfire, local authorities will provide critical updates. Sign up for emergency alerts, have a backup phone charger, and keep a battery-powered radio handy to monitor weather and fire updates.

Learn Emergency Skills
Know First Aid and CPR in case of emergencies. Be prepared for power outages, and plan for your electrical needs, including medical devices and cell phones.

Health Awareness
Wildfire smoke can harm your health, so take steps to minimize exposure. Make sure you understand the risks and how to stay safe during these events.

Jan 24, 2025 at 03:55 PM EST

California wildfire map update as 5 new fires erupt

California wildfire map update five new fires

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Five new fires have sparked in Southern California since Thursday.

At least 28 people have died in the Los Angeles area since multiple wildfires erupted, and thousands of residents have fled their homes.

Thursday's slew of new fires started just after midnight with the Sepulveda fire igniting in Los Angeles County. The fire is at 45 acres and 60 percent contained.

Around 9:40 a.m. local time in Ventura County, the Laguna fire sparked. It has now reached 94 acres. Firefighters have the flames 70 percent contained. The Border 2 fire ignited on Thursday afternoon around 2:30 p.m. and has since exploded to 4,250 acres. As of Friday morning, it is 10 percent contained. Evacuation orders and warnings remain in place.

Only minutes later, the Gilman fire ignited at 2:42 p.m. local time in San Diego County. However, the fire is already 100 percent contained. It reached 2 acres in size.

Later in the afternoon at around 4:40 p.m. local time, the Gibbel fire ignited in Riverside County. Firefighters have contained 50 percent of the fire, which is 20 acres in size.

Read in full from Anna Skinner on Newsweek.

Jan 24, 2025 at 03:44 PM EST

Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are on their way to California

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are on their way to California after visiting North Carolina to see the devastation from Hurricane Helene.

Trump waved to reporters as he boarded Air Force One at Asheville Regional Airport in Fletcher, North Carolina, on Friday, bound for California.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom is set to meet him on the tarmac, despite Trump failing to respond to his invitation.

Jan 24, 2025 at 03:40 PM EST

Pelosi calls for bipartisan effort to provide disaster relief aid

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi urged a united, bipartisan approach to providing urgent relief for families and communities affected by natural disasters, particularly those hit by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. In a tweet, Pelosi emphasized that assistance for disaster victims should never be used as a political tool.

"Urgently-needed assistance for families and communities ravaged by natural disasters should never be used as a pawn for political games," Pelosi said. "We must work together to deliver relief aid for all Americans impacted by natural disasters across the country, including for Californians to rebuild and recover from the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles."

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Jan 24, 2025 at 03:36 PM EST

More than a dozen schools in Chula Vista closed due to Border 2 fire

Several schools in the Chula Vista, California, school district were closed on Friday due to safety concerns stemming from the Border 2 Fire, according to San Diego's Office of Education.

The fire also led to school closures in four additional districts due to power outages caused by the ongoing blaze.

Jan 24, 2025 at 03:23 PM EST

What to do after evacuating a wildfire: Advice from an expert

Evacuating a wildfire is a disorienting and overwhelming experience, but taking certain steps once you're safe can make a significant difference in your recovery. Ali Moghaddas, an attorney with Edelson PC who has personally experienced an evacuation, emphasizes giving yourself grace while tackling essential tasks.

Key steps include contacting your insurance company to file a claim, keeping detailed receipts for expenses like food, clothing, and lodging, and creating a comprehensive list of property losses. This "virtual walkthrough," as Moghaddas calls it, involves mentally walking through your home room by room to catalog both large and small items, along with their value.

"While difficult, this process can help maximize your insurance coverage and significantly increase the compensation victims recover," says Moghaddas.

He also suggests considering legal representation, particularly from experienced wildfire attorneys who can navigate the complexities of investigating fire causes and pursuing compensation.

Moghaddas is a seasoned attorney with Edelson PC, which has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for wildfire victims nationwide. Notably, the firm obtained a $220 million jury verdict against a utility company in Oregon's Labor Day Wildfires case.

Before joining Edelson, Moghaddas was a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Attorney's Office in Los Angeles. He successfully tried numerous jury cases, including the conviction of former attorney Thomas Girardi for fraud. Having evacuated his home during the recent L.A. fires, Moghaddas brings both professional and personal insight to helping wildfire victims recover.

Jan 24, 2025 at 03:11 PM EST

Who is most at risk from wildfire smoke?

While most people are not significantly affected by wildfire smoke, certain groups face higher health risks, according to Dr. Alice Chen, internal medicine physician and board chair of Health Care Without Harm.

"People with underlying health conditions or limited access to resources are especially vulnerable," she told Newsweek in an email. Here are the groups at greatest risk:

Dr. Chen also highlighted an additional concern: wildfire smoke coincides with high rates of influenza and COVID-19. "Air pollution can weaken immune defenses and worsen symptoms," she explained.

To mitigate risks, she advises prompt action for illness. "Get tested and start treatment within 48 hours of symptoms, especially if you're elderly, have medical conditions, or live with high-risk individuals," Dr. Chen said.

Jan 24, 2025 at 02:55 PM EST

Experts warn of long-term environmental impact from LA wildfires

Experts are sounding the alarm over the environmental fallout from the series of wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles this month, warning of a lasting catastrophe that could impact the region for years. The wildfires have left toxic ash scattered across homes, playgrounds, and yards, with experts predicting an increase in health risks such as asthma and dementia, linked to wildfire particulate exposure.

Additionally, the vast amount of toxic debris left behind from tens of thousands of destroyed homes and businesses may pose challenges for cleanup. Homeowners could be prohibited from cleaning their own properties, instead relying on specially certified workers to sift through the wreckage and prepare sites for reconstruction.

Jan 24, 2025 at 02:43 PM EST

Southern California braces for rainfall after nine months of dry conditions

Southern California is finally set to receive much-needed rainfall, starting Saturday, after nearly nine months without significant precipitation. The storm is expected to begin in the Bay Area and move south, with Los Angeles County anticipated to receive three-quarters of an inch of rain. The San Gabriel foothills could see 1 to 2 inches over the next 36 hours, according to the National Weather Service.

While steady, lighter rainfall could provide relief by aiding firefighting efforts, heavier rain could increase the risk of flash floods and mudslides, particularly in areas scarred by recent fires. To prepare, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued an executive order to expedite cleanup and prevent fire-related debris from contaminating waterways and the city's stormwater system. The goal is to protect the watershed, beaches, and ocean from toxic runoff.

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Jan 24, 2025 at 02:32 PM EST

Donald Trump gives California two ultimatums for wildfire aid

President Donald Trump on Thursday stated two conditions that he would need to see before agreeing to release federal aid to wildfire-devastated California.

Republicans first floated the idea of conditional disaster relief earlier this month, angering California officials and creating division in the party over what some perceived as inconsistency about policies surrounding a very sensitive topic.

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana first floated the idea, saying that lawmakers needed to "have a serious conversation about that," blaming California policies for exacerbating the widespread damage of the wildfires.

Trump on Friday morning landed in North Carolina to tour the areas devasted by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. Before leaving the tarmac where Air Force One had landed, Trump told reporters that he had two conditions for California to receive federal disaster relief: new voter identification (ID) laws and changes to water policy.

Read in full from Peter Aitken on Newsweek.

Jan 24, 2025 at 02:29 PM EST

Trump slams Gavin Newsom again over California wildfires

Donald Trump has slammed Governor Gavin Newsom again over his handling of the California wildfires.

"It could've been put out if they let the water flow, but they didn't let the water flow. And they still haven't for whatever reason," he told reporters today.

Newsom and other officials in California have faced intense pressure over the wildfires, with the governor and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass getting criticism from the own party and facing the possibility of recall efforts.

Trump himself has lashed out at Newsom a number of times over the issue, blaming Newsom for the wildfire spread on his Truth Social website on Wednesday, dubbing the governor "Newscum." He wrote: "One of the best and most beautiful parts of the United States of America is burning down to the ground. It's ashes, and Gavin Newscum should resign. This is all his fault!!!"

He also said that the governor had "refused to sign the water restoration declaration put before him that would have allowed millions of gallons of water, from excess rain and snow melt from the North, to flow daily into many parts of California" because he preferred to prioritize the survival of the delta smelt fish.

Izzy Gardon, Newsom's director of communications, later told Newsweek: "There is no such document as the water restoration declaration, that is pure fiction. The Governor is focused on protecting people, not playing politics, and making sure firefighters have all the resources they need."

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Jan 24, 2025 at 02:17 PM EST

Preparing for wildfires: Essential emergency tips

In the middle of these wildfires in California, it's crucial to know what's coming and prepare in advance to protect yourself and your family. The American Red Cross recommends the following:

Gather essential supplies and organize them into two kits:

Ensure you have a month's worth of medication in a child-proof container and keep important personal, financial, and medical records safe.

Staying Connected
During a wildfire, local authorities will provide critical updates. Sign up for emergency alerts, have a backup phone charger, and keep a battery-powered radio handy to monitor weather and fire updates.

Learn Emergency Skills
Know First Aid and CPR in case of emergencies. Be prepared for power outages, and plan for your electrical needs, including medical devices and cell phones.

Health Awareness
Wildfire smoke can harm your health, so take steps to minimize exposure. Make sure you understand the risks and how to stay safe during these events.

Jan 24, 2025 at 02:02 PM EST

Smoke exposure health risks increase for vulnerable populations

Los Angeles Wildfire

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Dr. Alice Chen, internal medicine physician and board chair of Health Care Without Harm, told Newsweek via email that the recent wildfires have raised concerns about the potential health impacts of prolonged smoke exposure. While the average healthy individual is unlikely to experience severe illness or death due to the smoke, those with underlying medical conditions may face increased health risks, experts say.

The severity of these complications depends on the duration and intensity of exposure. Compounding the issue, if healthcare facilities are damaged or staff are unable to work, delays in medical care could worsen outcomes. Some hospitals in affected areas have reported rises in ER visits and hospitalizations, although others have not seen a significant uptick.

"The bottom line is that the official death toll is unlikely to change, but more health complications should be expected," Chen noted.

Residents experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or weakness are urged to seek medical attention. However, officials encourage those without urgent symptoms to avoid emergency rooms to leave resources available for critical cases.

Jan 24, 2025 at 01:57 PM EST

Newsom slams Trump’s decision to add conditions to federal aid

The office of California Governor Gavin Newsom has slammed Trump for adding conditions to federal aid in the wake of the wildfires.

"Conditioning aid for American citizens is wrong," it said in the post.

"FACT: Under current CA law you must be a CA resident and US citizen (and attest to being one under penalty of perjury) AND provide a form of ID such as driver's license or passport that has been approved by the Secretary of State in order to register to vote."

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Jan 24, 2025 at 01:52 PM EST

Metro offering free rides to residents impacted by LA County fires

L.A. County residents impacted by the wildfires will receive up to 20 free rides every month under an expanded reduced-fare initiative.

Metro Board of Directors today approved the proposal, in a unanimous vote, to change the LIFE reduced fare program for the next six months to offer the free rides, or a discounted pass for another participating agency.

Jan 24, 2025 at 01:36 PM EST

Can I cancel my planned vacation to California over wildfires? Travel insurance expert answers common questions

As wildfires continue to rip through southern California, many Americans who planned their vacations in popular tourist hot spots like L.A. San Diego or Disney, may be reconsidering their plans.

InsureMyTrip CEO Suzanne Morrow answers some of the most common questions about traveling or canceling a trip to an area ravaged by wildfires.

Q: Will I be covered if a wildfire devastates my destination and I need to cancel?

Morrow: The short answer is 'maybe.' Trip cancellation coverage applies if the policy was purchased before the wildfire became a known event. Travel insurance is designed to cover unforeseen issues, so policies purchased after the wildfire was reported won't cover it.

Q: What if I need to cut my trip short due to a wildfire?

Morrow: This situation falls under Trip Interruption coverage. You may be reimbursed for the unused portion of your trip if a mandatory evacuation it

Q: Am I covered if I'm injured or need medical attention because of a wildfire?

Morrow: Emergency medical benefits may apply if the policy was purchased before the wildfire became foreseeable. However, if you travel despite a government-issued advisory, fire-related medical issues won't

Q: What if I cancel my trip out of fear the wildfires might impact my plans?

Morrow: Standard travel insurance doesn't cover cancellations due to fear unless you have Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage. CFAR allows you to cancel for any reason, including concerns about wildfires, but eligibility and reimbursement depend on specific conditions.

Jan 24, 2025 at 01:19 PM EST

Trump says he wants to see voter ID, when asked about withholding federal aid from California

President Donald Trump was asked today if he was going to withhold federal aid from California unless they meet certain conditions.

"I want to see two things in Los Angeles; voter ID, so that the people have a chance to vote, and I want to see the water be released and come down into Los Angeles and throughout the state," he responded.

"Those are the two things, after that, I will be the greatest president that California has ever seen."

View this post on X

Jan 24, 2025 at 01:01 PM EST

Trump says aid will go ‘through us’ not FEMA

Donald Trump told reporters today that disaster aid for California will go through his administration instead of FEMA.

He added that he believed "FEMA was not on the ball" about delivering aid to California and North Carolina after the disasters.

In the L.A. wildfires, FEMA is helping both with the costs of the firefighting effort, as well as people who are evacuated or have lost their homes.

Jan 24, 2025 at 12:52 PM EST

Trump says he’s considering ‘getting rid of FEMA’

President Donald Trump said he was considering "getting rid" of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) during a visit to North Carolina, ahead of his Los Angeles trip later this afternoon.

He made the comment while touring the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

"FEMA has been a very big disappointment," Trump said. "It's very bureaucratic. And it's very slow. Other than that, we're very happy with them."

Trump said he was looking at signing an executive order on FEMA soon.

"I'd like to see the states take care of disasters," he said.

FEMA offers fire management assistance and helps cover firefighting costs in the wake of wildfires, as well as other disasters such as hurricanes and floods.

In the L.A. wildfires, the agency is helping both with the costs of the firefighting effort, as well as people who are evacuated or have lost their homes.

Jan 24, 2025 at 12:30 PM EST

Gilman Fire is now 100% contained

The Gilman Fire, which broke out in San Diego's La Jolla neighborhood, yesterday, has now been 100% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

The fire broke out at around 2:13 p.m. PST Thursday close to both Interstate 5 and the Torrey Pines golf course, where the PGA Farmers Insurance Open is being held this week.

It spread to two acres before it was contained today before 12.30 p.m. ET.

Jan 24, 2025 at 12:18 PM EST

California wildfire map update shows how every fire burning has spread

As of Friday morning, nine active wildfires are burning in Southern California, and maps shared on the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) website show how each one has grown.

At least 28 people have died in the Los Angeles area since multiple wildfires erupted, and thousands of residents have fled their homes.

Earlier this month, two significant wildfires ignited in Los Angeles County and quickly grew to encompass thousands of acres. Firefighters are still battling those two blazes, named the Palisades and Eaton fires.

Jan 24, 2025 at 11:53 AM EST

Beach warning in LA County due to wildfires

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a warning to avoid going into the ocean due to the wildfire.

The department warned that debris and toxic runoff from the Hughes, Palisades, and Eaton fires "may contain substances including arsenic, other metals, and asbestos, which can be harmful to human health."

Jan 24, 2025 at 11:42 AM EST

Red Cross support emergency evacuation points for Border fire

Volunteers from the American Red Cross, Southern California Region, are supporting evacuation points for people fleeing the Border 2 fire.

The temporary evacuation points are at:

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Jan 24, 2025 at 11:35 AM EST

LA real estate agent hit with first price gouging charges after fires

A real estate agent in Los Angeles County is the first person to face criminal charges for price gouging following the devastating wildfires that ravaged Southern California this month.

The state's attorney general, Rob Bonta, said California authorities are "making good on our promise to hold price gougers accountable, with more to come," the Los Angeles Times reported.

An emergency was declared in California on January 7, when the fires started. On January 12, Newsom signed an executive order that extended laws "prohibiting price gouging in times of emergency" until January 7, 2026, in Los Angeles County. Those violating the law can receive a fine of up to $10,000 and/or be sentenced to a year in county jail.

A Justice Department investigation revealed that real estate agent Mike Kobeissi tried to rent out a home in La Cañada Flintridge, in Los Angeles County, to a couple who had lost their home in the Eaton fire at a rental price that was 38 percent higher than advertised before the fires. The couple decided against renting the home because of its cost.

"They got it completely wrong the home was rented within the law limits and they think somehow that it was rented higher," Kobeissi said in a statement to Newsweek. "Tenants are very happy how the owner helped them with price reduction."

Kobeissi also said in an interview cited by the Los Angeles Times that the price increase "had nothing to do with the fires or anything." According to the real estate agent, the price increased from $8,700 to $12,000 a month after confirmation that the property was within the boundaries of the prestigious La Cañada Flintridge school district.

"Right now, the home is rented away below the market," Kobeissi said, adding that the owner offers a free month of rent and furniture and has decided to rent the property out for less than $10,000 to victims of the wildfires.

On Wednesday, Kobeissi became the first person charged for price gouging after the Los Angeles fires. He's facing one misdemeanor count of price gouging.

Jan 24, 2025 at 11:23 AM EST

Fire map update as Border 2 fire sparks evacuations

Updated evacuation maps show the areas in San Diego that are under evacuation orders (in red) and warnings (in yellow).

A temporary evacuation point has been changed to the Regal Edwards Cinemas Rancho San Diego for those impacted by the orders.

But San Diego Sheriff warns that local residents don't have to wait until an evacuation order is issued.

" If you feel you are in danger, GO!" they said on X.

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Jan 24, 2025 at 11:05 AM EST

Current state of wildfires in California as Border 2 burns more than 4,000 acres in 24 hours

This morning, shows that the new Border 2 fire has rapidly spread since it started yesterday, burning more than 4,000 acres.

Jan 24, 2025 at 10:49 AM EST

IN PICTURES: The wildfire aftermath as homes were entirely wiped out by the fires

A kayaker paddles past beachfront destroyed homes

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Damage to beachfront homes by Palisades Fire

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Properties are damaged by the Palisades Fire

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Jan 24, 2025 at 10:39 AM EST

Trump pressures California to reroute water to farms and cities

As President Donald Trump prepares to tour wildfire damage in Los Angeles, he has reignited criticism of California's water management. Trump has repeatedly accused state officials of diverting excessive water to environmental causes instead of allocating it to Southern California cities and Central Valley farms.

Trump recently directed federal officials to prioritize water routing to agricultural and urban users, echoing policies from his previous administration. His comments have drawn praise from farmers and criticism from environmental advocates, reflecting long-standing tensions over California's water system.

California's water distribution is complex, with most water resources located in the north and most of the population in the south. Los Angeles relies heavily on water from the north, while the Central Valley is a key agricultural area.

Two major systems, the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project, transport water from the north to the south. Trump's administration has previously directed more water to the Central Valley, a move opposed by environmental groups.

The debate over water allocation continues, with Trump advocating for more water to be directed to cities and farms rather than the ocean. Environmental groups argue that this could harm endangered species. Trump's directive to route more water to farmers and cities may not benefit Los Angeles directly unless there is coordination between federal and state systems.

Read in full from Amir Daftari on Newsweek.

Jan 24, 2025 at 10:29 AM EST

Map shows air quality plummeting in California as Hughes Fire rages

Air quality levels across large swathes of California have deteriorated as fires, such as the newly ignited Hughes Fire, continue to burn in and around Los Angeles.

While air quality in Southern California is generally better, low wind speeds in northern portions of the state are allowing poor air to linger.

Sierra County was worst affected, with a peak Air Quality Index (AQI) of 168 in its county seat of Downieville, according to government-run website Air Now.

AQIs above 150 are considered unhealthy, meaning "some members of the general public may experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects."

Read in full from Tom Howarth on Newsweek.

A map showing the Air Quality Index

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Jan 24, 2025 at 10:21 AM EST

Governor Newsom plans to crash Trump’s California visit

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said yesterday, that while he had yet to hear from Donald Trump ahead of his planned tour of the wildfire damage, he was still planning on turning up at the airport to greet the president when he lands.

"I look forward to being there on the tarmac to thank the president, welcome him, and we're making sure that all the resources he needs for a successful briefing are provided to him," Newsom told reporters Thursday.

"There's no limit to the resources we'll provide for that briefing," he added.

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