US President-elect Donald Trump expressed frustration over the ongoing Southern California wildfires, calling them “one of the worst catastrophes” in American history. Taking to Truth Social, Trump criticized local authorities for their inability to contain the fires, which have claimed lives, destroyed thousands of homes, and forced mass evacuations.
“The fires are still raging in LA The incompetent pols have no idea how to put them out,” Trump wrote. “Thousands of magnificent houses are gone, and many more will soon be lost. There is death all over the place. They just can’t put out the fires. What’s wrong with them?”
Wildfires’ devastating impact
According to officials cited by the New York Post, at least 16 people have died, and nearly 200,000 residents have been displaced. Over 35,000 acres—an area two-and-a-half times the size of Manhattan—have been scorched.
The Palisades Fire alone has burned 19,978 acres, making it the most destructive, while the Eaton Fire has devastated 13,690 acres. Smaller fires, including the Kenneth and Hurst fires, have collectively destroyed over 1,700 acres of land.
AccuWeather estimates the economic damage could exceed $50 billion, potentially making these fires the costliest in California’s history.
Governor Newsom pushes back against misinformation
California Governor Gavin Newsom countered misinformation about the wildfires, emphasizing state efforts in fire prevention and response. In a post on X, Newsom wrote, “The TRUTH: – CA did NOT cut our firefighting budget. We’ve doubled the size of our firefighting army and built the world’s largest aerial firefighting fleet. – CA has INCREASED forest management ten-fold since we took office. – California will NOT allow for looting.”
Newsom also launched a new website to provide accurate information on the ongoing crisis and urged the public to rely on verified sources.
The Sunset Fire has reportedly been contained, but officials warn that other fires may worsen in the coming days due to dry conditions and high winds.
