South OC Times

Trabuco Canyon, CA – U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Ken Calvert (CA-41) have spearheaded a bipartisan initiative urging California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a State of Emergency in response to the Airport Fire affecting Orange and Riverside Counties.

The letter, supported by Reps. Lou Correa (CA-46), Michelle Steel (CA-45), Mike Levin (CA-48), and Katie Porter (CA-47), calls for immediate state intervention to aid local efforts in combating the rapidly spreading fire.

"We write to urge you to declare a State of Emergency to assist in the response to the Airport Fire impacting Orange and Riverside Counties," stated the letter. The fire began near Trabuco Creek Road in Trabuco Canyon following a record-breaking heat wave across Southern California. It has necessitated mandatory evacuations, school closures, and traffic disruptions. As of September 10, 2024, less than 24 hours after its inception, the fire has consumed over 9,300 acres and remains uncontrolled.

Acknowledging the efforts of local firefighting agencies such as the Orange County Fire Authority, U.S. Forest Service, CAL FIRE, Riverside County Fire Department, sheriff departments, and community leaders, the letter emphasizes the need for additional resources. "It is essential to supplement their efforts as soon as possible," it states.

The letter highlights that while the Orange County Board of Supervisors has declared a local State of Emergency, state-level resources combined with federal support are crucial for effective response and recovery. It references Governor Newsom's prompt action during a previous emergency—the Line Fire in San Bernardino County—and requests similar measures for this incident.

"In order for our communities to have the necessary resources to ensure their public health and safety," reads the letter, "we request that you declare a State of Emergency in Orange and Riverside Counties and permit expedited federal assistance." This declaration would enable access to federal support aimed at fire suppression and safeguarding affected communities.

The representatives expressed gratitude for Governor Newsom's attention to this matter and affirmed their commitment to collaborating on disaster response efforts.