Los Angeles

Resource centers in Los Angeles County are fielding thousands of questions from thousands of tragedies. They are resetting the foundations for individuals and families that seemed solid just two weeks ago and now seem unfathomably tenuous.

Being a county supervisor can be hard work in California, but in times of crisis, it’s a lot less uncomfortable than being a mayor. The dynamic is about to change for Los Angeles County.

The Los Angeles-area fires reveal a harsh truth: Recovery isn’t the same for everyone. Wealthier communities will turn to private resources, while working-class neighborhoods in Altadena will face immense barriers to rebuilding and recovery.

If disasters are unavoidable in California, we need to accept that fact and adopt Gov. Pete Wilson’s preventive approach, rather than merely reacting after the fact.

Amidst the destruction in LA, there are glimmers of hope, too. Angelenos everywhere have heard the call for aid and stepped up in remarkable, even miraculous ways.

CalMatters photographers captured the devastation as fierce Santa Ana winds and bone-dry conditions propelled multiple wildfires across Los Angeles County.

Gov. Gavin Newsom's invitation to the president-elect says Californians deserve to see them work together to address the devastation of the Los Angeles fires. Donald Trump has threatened to block disaster relief to California, and he soon will have the power to at least slow-walk aid.

What this tragedy will not raise is the accusation that government failed those most in need. In this case, it is a reminder that all of us, regardless of wealth or station, require the services of each other and our government.

Southern California’s disaster again demonstrates that while wildfires were once mostly confined to rural timbered areas during summer and fall months, a warming climate means they can and do strike anywhere and anytime, including residential neighborhoods in the middle of winter.

President-elect Donald Trump faulted California water policies for the devastating wildfires that are burning in Los Angeles County. The fires started because of fierce winds and extremely dry conditions.