Newsom Orders “Investigation” Into HIS Own Failures

California Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered an urgent investigation into water supply issues that severely hampered firefighting efforts during recent Southern California wildfires.

At a Glance

  • Gov. Newsom calls for independent investigation into loss of water pressure and unavailability of water supplies
  • At least 11 people have died due to the wildfires, with numbers expected to rise
  • The Palisades Fire is the most destructive in LA’s history, burning 5,300 structures
  • Criticism directed at local officials and Newsom for disaster handling and water planning
  • LADWP welcomes investigation, acknowledging need for improved water system capabilities

Governor Orders Urgent Review

Governor Gavin Newsom of California has initiated an urgent review of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power following numerous reports of depleted fire hydrants during recent wildfires.

In other words, he’s investigating his own failure.

Firefighters were left struggling against aggressive flames when water supplies ran out, severely hampering their effectiveness throughout Los Angeles County.

The significant issue of reduced water pressure along with limited access to major water reserves such as the Santa Ynez Reservoir necessitated this response. Newsom is pushing for a reevaluation of emergency protocols to ensure that water supply infrastructures are more resilient and adequately prepared for future wildfire emergencies.

Devastating Impact and Ongoing Challenges

The wildfires have wreaked havoc across Southern California, destroying approximately 56 square miles and affecting a wide range of residents. The Palisades Fire, now considered the most destructive in LA’s history, has burned 5,300 structures. As assessments continue, the death toll, currently at 11, is expected to rise.

“I am calling for an independent investigation into the loss of water pressure to local fire hydrants and the reported unavailability of water supplies from the Santa Ynez Reservoir. We need answers to ensure this does not happen again and we have every resource available to fight these catastrophic fires,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said.

The governor’s call for an investigation comes amid criticism directed at both local officials and Newsom himself for the handling of the disaster and questions about local water planning. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) has welcomed the investigation, acknowledging the need for improved water system capabilities.

Infrastructure Challenges and Future Preparedness

Experts have noted that urban water systems are typically not designed for large, long-lasting wildfires, complicating firefighting efforts in areas like Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Pasadena. The Santa Ynez Reservoir, a crucial 117 million-gallon water source, was offline for repairs, leaving it empty during the fires.

“Local water systems are usually designed to fight local, small-scale fires over a limited time period. They are not generally designed to fight large, long-lasting wildfires,” Kathryn Sorensen said.

That being said, there were obviously failures here.

Let’s see if Newsom actually gets to the bottom of it.