California Wildfires Rage On, Tom Hanks Donates Amidst $8bn Losses

A devastating series of wildfires is sweeping through Los Angeles, forcing over 179,000 people to evacuate and resulting in estimated property losses of over $8 billion. The blazes, driven by dry weather and powerful offshore winds, have destroyed over 10,000 buildings and claimed at least 10 lives. As the situation continues to worsen, celebrities like Tom Hanks are stepping up to support the relief efforts.

The Palisades Fire, the largest of the five fires currently raging in LA, has burned nearly 20,000 acres and prompted new evacuations in Encino and Brentwood. The fire has also led to the closure of the Pacific Coast Highway and forced the evacuation of over 150,000 people across LA. The Getty Center, which survived a 2019 fire, has been closed due to evacuation orders. The LA County School District has announced that all schools will be closed due to the fire, and a sunset-to-sunrise curfew has been imposed in evacuation zones.

The California Governor, Gavin Newsom, has declared a state of emergency and ordered an investigation into the failures of fire hydrants and low water pressure that firefighters faced while battling the fires. President Joe Biden has approved emergency assistance for the region, which will include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans, and programs for those recovering. The NFL has pledged $5 million to wildfire relief efforts, and Airbnb has expanded its offer of free stays to 25,000 additional evacuees.

As the wildfires continue to rage on, the people of California are coming together to support those affected by the disaster. Volunteer efforts are underway, and donations are pouring in to help those in need. The situation remains dire, but with the support of the community and the efforts of emergency responders, there is hope for recovery and rebuilding.