Official statements from California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) or Los Angeles Fire Department

Biden Cancels Italy Trip to Focus on Los Angeles Wildfires

Jan 9, 2025, 03:35 AM

President Joe Biden canceled his trip to Italy, including a planned meeting with Pope Francis, to focus on the federal response to devastating wildfires in California, particularly in the Los Angeles area. The White House announced that Biden decided to remain in Washington to oversee the government's efforts as California races to contain several fires burning in and around Los Angeles, including the Palisades Fire, which has forced mandatory evacuations and claimed at least five lives. Biden declared California a major disaster area due to the wildfires. Strong winds have exacerbated the situation, with climate scientists warning of worsening conditions. The canceled trip to Italy was meant to be his final foreign visit of his presidency. Authorities have ordered evacuations in areas such as Pacific Palisades and the Hollywood Hills.