Catastrophic fires in Los Angeles—especially the Palisades and Eaton fires—have devasted communities across the nation’s second largest city and beyond. As I write this, these fires are still burning, and dangerous weather is on the horizon. The vast scope of these fires is almost unfathomable, and it will be weeks, and likely months, before the full impact is known. Our hearts go out to our fellow Californians, who have lost so much—loved ones, homes, businesses, and even entire communities. They are going to need our care and support for months and years to come.
The immediate concern is clear: ensuring public safety and finding shelter for those who’ve lost everything. Our first responders are on the front lines of these efforts. In addition to thousands of local responders, fire departments from all over the state, country, and continent have come to Southern California’s aid. Their courage, dedication, and selflessness are a reminder to all of us of what’s needed in times of crisis.
After the last flames have been extinguished, and as many lives, homes, and businesses have been saved as possible, it will be time to plan and act for the future. Time and time again, Californians have demonstrated their resilience in the face of extraordinary challenges. There’s no reason to think that this time will be different. It’s going to take facts, ingenuity, and cooperation to emerge from this current darkness into brighter days ahead. At PPIC we’ll be focused on sharing fact-based information and forward-looking solutions that will help to chart a positive direction for our state in increasingly uncertain times.