DeSantis pledges Florida’s help in California as deadly wildfires engulf Los Angeles area, prompt mandatory evacuations

LOS ANGELES – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said on Wednesday that the state of Florida has offered help to assist the people of California in responding to deadly wildfires that have prompted mandatory evacuations of more than 80,000 people.

The announcement, made on social media platform X, comes after firefighters in Los Angeles County try to combat four different wildfires fueled by what officials are calling “life-threatening winds.”

Related: What are California’s Santa Ana winds? | As one side of the US freezes, the other side is on fire. What’s driving the weather divide?

In the post, DeSantis wrote: “Our prayers are with everyone affected by the horrific fires in Southern California. When disaster strikes, we must come together to help our fellow Americans in any way we can. The state of Florida has offered help to assist the people of California in responding to these fires and in rebuilding communities that have been devastated.”

The Associated Press said California firefighters are battling wind-whipped fires tearing across the area, destroying homes, clogging roadways as tens of thousands fled and straining resources as the fires burned uncontained early Wednesday.

At least two people are dead and many others are facing serious injuries.

Authorities said Wednesday the fires are zero percent contained and emergency workers are struggling to battle the fast-moving flames.

The Pacific Palisades wildfire is the most destructive in LA history with at least 1,000 structures burned.

It was also reported by AP on Wednesday that Universal Studios of Hollywood, the theme park located in Universal City — between Pasadena and the Pacific Palisades — was closed on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the studio canceled shooting for numerous series, including “Hacks,” “Ted Lasso” and “Suits LA.”

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