California governor demanded explanation for empty reservoir amid wildfires

California Governor Gavin Newsom has called for an independent investigation into the lack of pressure in fire hydrants and reports of inaccessible water in the Santa Ynez Reservoir during massive fires in the state. On Jan. 10, he said on social networking site X (formerly Twitter).

"We need answers to ensure this doesn't happen again and we have every resource possible to fight these catastrophic fires," Newsom wrote.

To the post, he added a formal letter to Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) Chief Executive Officer Janice Quiñones and Los Angeles County Public Works Director Mark Pestrell.

Newsom in it asks LADWP and Los Angeles County officials to quickly prepare an overview to ensure an affordable water supply during an emergency.

"I ask that you fully and transparently provide information and records for the state's post-incident review. I suggest we examine the actions of local government agencies during this disaster and learn from this tragedy," the Governor concluded.

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On January 10, one man was arrested on suspicion of arson, which may have started the largest fire in Los Angeles. He could face punishment up to life imprisonment. According to the latest reports, at least 10 people were victims of the disaster.

Biden, holding a briefing on the situation with the fires on January 9 , offered to "light up" the acting Vice President of the country Kamala Harris, as the situation affected her personally. The latter, looking at the President in surprise, continued her speech.

Multiple wildfires in Los Angeles were reported on January 8. Extinguishing continues, strong winds fuel the fire, rescue crews lack water. Due to the fires, Biden declared a major disaster mode in the state. As predicted by the consulting company AccuWeather, the damage and losses from the disaster will be about $52-57 billion.

Before that, on January 7, California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed gratitude to U.S. President Joe Biden for federal assistance as wildfires continue to rage in the Los Angeles area.

Earlier in the day, Los Angeles declared a state of emergency due to the wildfires. City Council President Marquis Harris-Dawson said the city will utilize all resources. Meanwhile, 27,000 local residents of Pacific Palisades are called for forced evacuation.