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Today: February 15, 2025
Today: February 15, 2025

Newsom works to prevent mudslides in fire-affected areas

Newsom works to prevent mudslides in fire-affected areasPhoto by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images
January 28, 2025
Jasmin Jose - LA Post

Gov. Newsom signed an order to speed up emergency responses in areas hit by recent fires, hoping to prevent mudslides and floods.

For the next 90 days, some environmental rules are on hold to make it easier to shore up hillsides and clear out debris from waterways. These measures will remain in effect through the end of the typical rainy season.

While easing some restrictions, the order mandates that work in streams and rivers adhere to specified conditions to protect these waterways.

Kathryn Barger, who heads the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, backed the governor's move, saying it'll help them quickly protect fire-damaged areas from floods and mudflows.

"We're all in this together - every level of government is working to keep people safe," Barger noted.

Supervisor Lindsey Horvath chimed in too, praising the order for helping them tackle flood and debris risks as soon as possible.

This executive order complements recent directives from Newsom to accelerate debris removal in fire-affected areas and permit federal hazardous materials crews to begin property cleanup as soon as safely possible.

The governor's office has issued several executive orders in response to the L.A. firestorms, aimed at aiding rebuilding efforts, increasing temporary housing, and safeguarding survivors from exploitation and price gouging.

State officials are encouraging affected Californians to visit CA.gov/LAfires for information and resources from various government agencies. Individuals and business owners who suffered losses from the wildfires in L.A. County can apply for disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) online, by phone, or via the FEMA smartphone application.

If you need help in another language or use a relay service, FEMA's got you covered - just let them know what you need.

Newsom's team says these steps are part of a bigger plan to help people rebuild and stay safe from winter storms after the fires.

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