Fire officials hold press conference on wildfires in Southern California
UPDATE (2:16 PM): President Biden meet with California Governor Gavin Newsom Wednesday afternoon as wildfires raged in the state.
Biden and Newsom were briefed on the fires by first responders at a firehouse in Santa Monica.
"It's impossible for me to express the level of appreciation and cooperation we received from the White House and this administration. So on behalf of all of us, Mr. President, thank you for being here, but not just being here today. Thank you for being here since the minute of this incident, when there was a 10 acre fire, less than 24 so hours to go, deep gratitude."
Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.)
The president assured Californians that the federal government would provide whatever support necessary to help put out the fires, and would stay after the flames have died down to help rebuild.
"We're prepared to anything and everything as long as it takes to obtain these fires and help reconstruct make sure that we get back to normal, it's going to be a hell of a long way. It's going to take time. Federal Government is here to stay. As long as it needs. Everything you need," Biden declared.
Biden also shared some good news: His first great-grandchild was born Wednesday as his granddaughter, Naomi Biden, gave birth.
"My son was out here. And his wife, they got a notification yesterday, their home is probably burning to the ground today. It appears that it may be still standing. They're not sure. But the good news is, I'm a great grandfather, and as of today, great granddaughter. So I'll remember this day for a lot of the wrong reasons," Biden shared.
At least two people have been killed by the fast-moving fires, prompting mandatory evacuations of more than 80,000 people.
UPDATE (11:50 AM): President Joe Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom are holding a press conference Wednesday afternoon to provide updates on the wildfires in Southern California.
To watch the livestream of the press conference, see attached video.
LOS ANGELES (KYMA, KECY/NBC) - Fire officials in the Los Angeles area are holding a press conference Wednesday regarding the wildfires in Southern California.
The Palisades Fire broke out Tuesday afternoon and has burned more than 2,900 acres and threatened 1,300 structures.
According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department's (LACoFD) post on X, the Eaton Fire burned at least 2,230 acres and threatened at least 28,430 structures. While there were no civilian injuries, LACoFD reported one firefighter being injured.
Meanwhile, the Hurst Fire has, so far, grown to at least 500 acres, according to Genasys Protect.
Officials say the fires are 0% contained and evacuations orders have been issued throughout the area.
To watch the livestream of the press conference, see attached video.
