Official announcements from the California Governor's Office

Governor Newsom Orders Probe into LA Water Failures, Fire Hydrants Running Dry

Jan 10, 2025, 09:05 PM

California Governor Gavin Newsom has called for an independent investigation into the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) following reports of water supply issues during ongoing fires in Southern California. Specifically, the investigation will address the loss of water pressure in local fire hydrants, the reported unavailability of water supplies from the Santa Ynez Reservoir, and instances of fire hydrants running dry. Newsom has ordered state water and firefighting officials to examine these failures, which have hindered firefighting operations, forcing firefighters to resort to residential pools for water. In a letter to LADWP and LA County Public Works, Newsom emphasized the need for answers to prevent such issues in the future and ensure adequate resources for firefighting efforts.