U.S. President Donald Trump toured parts of California affected by devastating wildfires as firefighters continued efforts to contain multiple blazes across the Los Angeles region. With strong winds, dry conditions, and massive destruction, the state faces ongoing challenges in managing the fires and their aftermath.
Trump Surveys Fire Damage and Criticizes California’s Water Policies
On Friday, Trump flew over wildfire-hit areas, including the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, where homes were reduced to ashes. The Palisades Fire, which has burned nearly 9,500 hectares, is now about 77% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
Before his visit, Trump criticized California leaders, claiming that water restrictions worsened the fires. He stated, “I will take a look at a fire that could have been put out if they let the water flow.” However, California Governor Gavin Newsom and other state officials rejected this claim, arguing that extreme fires place unprecedented demand on fire management systems.
Upon arrival in Los Angeles, Trump and Newsom shook hands and exchanged cordial remarks. Trump assured, “We’re going to get it fixed.”
Trump Also Visits North Carolina, Criticizes FEMA
Before heading to California, Trump visited North Carolina, where he was briefed on the hurricane recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Speaking at Asheville Regional Airport, he expressed frustration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), calling it “a very big disappointment” and even suggesting getting rid of it.
Trump has previously hinted at using federal disaster aid as leverage, either in legislative negotiations or to pressure California to change its water policies.
Representative Young Kim from Orange County criticized this approach, stating, “Playing politics with people’s livelihoods is unacceptable and a slap in the face to wildfire victims and first responders.”
Firefighters Continue Battling Multiple Blazes
As Trump toured the damage, firefighters in Los Angeles remained on high alert, working tirelessly to control several wildfires.
1. Hughes Fire – 56% Contained
- Located near Castaic Lake, northwest of Los Angeles
- Evacuation orders issued for over 50,000 people
- Aerial water drops helped slow its spread overnight
- Burned more than 4,200 hectares
2. Eaton Fire – 95% Contained
- The second-largest active fire
- Burned over 5,600 hectares
- Firefighters made significant progress in containing it
3. Laguna Fire – 70% Contained
- Located in Ventura County
- Initially led to evacuation orders for California State University Channel Islands
- Orders downgraded to warnings as conditions improved
- Burned nearly 40 hectares
4. Pacific Palisades Fire – 77% Contained
- One of the most destructive fires
- Homes reduced to ashes
- Burned nearly 9,500 hectares
Health Risks and Evacuations Continue
Los Angeles County issued health advisories due to smoke and windblown ash, which pose health risks.
Dr. Muntu Davis, the county’s health officer, warned, “Smoke and ash can harm everyone, even those who are healthy.”
Weather Conditions and Rain Forecast
The U.S. Storm Prediction Center reported high winds, low humidity, and dry conditions, keeping fire risks elevated. However, relief may be on the way.
The National Weather Service forecasts rain beginning Saturday, with up to 1 cm of rainfall expected in Los Angeles. Localized thunderstorms could bring heavier rainfall, raising concerns about mudslides in fire-damaged areas.
Devastation in Southern California
The wildfires that began on January 7 have been catastrophic:
- 28 confirmed deaths (toll expected to rise)
- 16,000 buildings destroyed
- Thousands evacuated
As California firefighters battle to contain the fires, Trump’s visit brought controversy over federal aid and state policies. Meanwhile, rain is expected to help with containment, but also raises concerns about mudslides in scorched areas. With thousands of homes lost and a rising death toll, California faces a long road to recovery.