California’s relentless wildfires are on track to become the most expensive natural disaster in U.S. history, according to Governor Gavin Newsom. As blazes engulf over 40,000 acres, officials brace for escalating damage fueled by powerful winds and parched conditions.
Speaking on NBC’s Meet the Press, Newsom highlighted the unprecedented scale of destruction, predicting soaring recovery costs and warning of more fatalities as search efforts continue. With 16 confirmed deaths so far, local authorities fear the toll could climb.
The threat of Santa Ana winds gusting up to 70 mph has prompted widespread evacuation orders, including in affluent neighborhoods like Brentwood and Mandeville Canyon. Firefighters have made progress containing several fires, but the Palisades and Eaton fires remain largely unchecked, with containment at 11% and 27%, respectively.
The National Weather Service warned that “critical fire conditions” could persist through Wednesday, exacerbated by one of Los Angeles’ driest starts to the rainy season in over a century. Local fire chief Anthony Maroney cautioned residents to remain vigilant as conditions deteriorate.
Federal and state agencies have mobilized resources to support firefighting efforts and assist displaced residents. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has deployed staff to aid recovery applications, while the Small Business Administration is offering loans to those affected. Newsom issued an executive order to streamline rebuilding processes for victims.
Deanne Criswell, FEMA’s director, hinted at deploying U.S. troops to assist as fires rage on. “Active-duty personnel are prepared to join the fight,” she said.
Adding to the challenges, political tensions have intensified between Newsom and former President Donald Trump, who has criticized California’s fire management and threatened to withhold disaster funding in the past. Trump, who refers to the governor as “Newscum,” continued his verbal attacks over social media, calling state officials “incompetent.” Newsom has dismissed the comments as unhelpful, emphasizing the importance of focusing on immediate relief efforts.
Despite the challenges, President Joe Biden has pledged full federal support, promising to cover 100% of the disaster costs. Analysts estimate the economic toll of the fires to reach up to $150 billion, with over 12,000 structures destroyed.
As firefighters battle the flames, residents hope that a coordinated response will bring relief. For now, the crisis shows no signs of abating, leaving California to grapple with one of its darkest chapters in recent history.
