US deploys National Guard to deal with wildfires in California

"The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has requested the California National Guard to assist in fighting the wildfires. Over the past 24 hours, approximately 400 Guard members across the state have been placed on active duty," Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced on January 9.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has approved the request, Luna said. “We expect National Guard units to be on the scene tonight,” the Los Angeles County Sheriff said, warning that police were patrolling areas under evacuation orders and would arrest anyone who did not have a business there.

Wildfires have been burning in the Pacific Palisades, Eaton and Hurst areas of Los Angeles since January 7. Firefighters say the spread has slowed, but none of the major fires are under control.

Local officials and meteorologists warn that the dry, windy weather is not over yet. "The winds are still blowing very strongly. This is an unprecedented firestorm," said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

Nearly 180,000 people in Los Angeles County have been evacuated. Los Angeles police confirmed at least five people have died in the wildfire.

A dawn-to-dusk curfew has been imposed in evacuated areas of the coastal city of Santa Monica. Police Chief Luna said additional overnight curfews will be imposed in areas where wildfires are raging.

US President Joe Biden on January 9 pledged more federal funding and resources to help California fight the wildfires. "This is the most extensive and destructive fire in California's history," he said.