Pope Francis has expressed his deep sorrow over the widespread devastation caused by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, California, sending a heartfelt message of “spiritual closeness” to the victims. The pontiff’s message was conveyed through a telegram to the Archbishop of Los Angeles, in which Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin expressed Pope Francis’s sadness over the tragic loss of life and destruction caused by the fires.
The wildfires, which have already claimed the lives of at least 11 people, have ravaged thousands of homes and left much of the Los Angeles area in ruins. California Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered an independent review of the city’s emergency response, particularly highlighting concerns over hydrant failures and false evacuation alerts, which fueled frustration among residents. Many locals, including those whose homes were destroyed, have criticized officials for their inadequate preparation and response.
In addition to the loss of life and property, the fire has triggered mass evacuations, with a curfew now in place to curb looting and maintain order. The National Guard has been deployed to assist law enforcement in keeping the peace, while local residents have formed patrols to protect their neighborhoods. Despite some progress being made in containing the fires, authorities warn that the situation remains volatile, with winds expected to pick up again in the coming days.
In the face of this calamity, President Joe Biden compared the destruction to a “war scene” and vowed to ensure that aid and resources are made available to those affected. Meanwhile, celebrities such as Mel Gibson have revealed that their homes in Malibu were also consumed by the flames.
As emergency teams continue their tireless efforts, the disaster serves as a stark reminder of the escalating threat of wildfires and the impact of climate change on fire intensity.
