Trump to Visit Los Angeles Wildfire Zone After January 20 Inauguration, Surveying 27 Deaths and 160,000 Acres Burned

Jan 18, 2025, 06:55 PM

President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to visit Los Angeles next week, marking his first official trip after his inauguration on January 20, 2025. The visit aims to survey the devastation caused by wildfires that have ravaged the region since January 7, claiming at least 27 lives, destroying over 10,000 structures, and displacing thousands of residents. Trump stated that he postponed the visit until after his inauguration, deeming it more appropriate to visit as president. The wildfires, including the Palisades and Altadena fires, have burned approximately 160,000 acres and led to the evacuation of over 105,000 people. The crisis has also resulted in multiple arrests for arson and other violations. Fueled by record-breaking Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 160 km/h, and prolonged drought conditions, the fires have posed significant challenges for emergency responders. California Governor Gavin Newsom invited Trump to tour the affected areas, despite ongoing tensions between the two leaders. Trump has criticized Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for their handling of the crisis, while Newsom has dismissed Trump’s remarks as misinformation. Federal and state emergency teams continue efforts to contain the fires and provide relief to affected communities.