Breaking News: Dual Disasters Impact the Nation - Midwest Winter Storm and Southern California WildfiresBy TNW News Breaking Team – January 15, 2025 The nation faces dual crises as a historic winter storm paralyzes the Midwest while Southern California battles catastrophic wildfires. The combined toll of these disasters has led to significant disruptions, loss of life, and unprecedented challenges for emergency responders. Southern California Wildfires: Devastation and Danger At least 25 people have died in wildfires raging across the Los Angeles area, with containment efforts hampered by strong winds. A Red Flag Warning remains in effect through Wednesday evening, with officials warning of heightened fire risks due to gusts and dry conditions. Evacuations and Impact Evacuations: Over 88,000 residents are under evacuation orders, with 84,000 more on high alert. Talks of repopulation remain on hold until conditions improve. Missing Persons: Authorities are investigating 16 active cases, with search efforts focused on the Altadena area where grid searches have recovered multiple remains. Structural Damage: More than 12,000 structures have been destroyed across the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires. Federal and State Response President Joe Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom have pledged robust federal and state support, including: Deployment of 2,500 California National Guard members. Coordination with FEMA to provide shelters, housing aid, and disaster relief programs. Arson investigation into the Kenneth Fire, with one suspect in custody. Vice President Kamala Harris shared the following statement:"Over the last seven days, communities in Southern California have experienced horrific loss due to wildfires. President Biden and I have remained in close contact with federal, state, and local officials, and our Administration will continue to provide resources to support response efforts and help impacted communities. To my fellow Californians: As the winds increase again, please follow guidance from local officials and stay safe." Residents in Los Angeles County who registered for FEMA assistance will receive a determination letter. If the letter states you are "not approved," it does not necessarily mean denial of assistance. Learn more about understanding the letter and next steps here: FEMA Determination Letter Info. Resources for evacuees include free gym access, communication services, and transportation vouchers. Full details are available at TNWWeather.com. Midwest Winter Storm: Life-Threatening Blizzard Conditions The Midwest is reeling from a historic winter storm delivering record-breaking snowfall, dangerous ice, and life-threatening cold temperatures. Despite the severity, there are no widespread power outages reported. Current Storm Updates Chicago Blizzard: Over 20 inches of snow have paralyzed the city, leading to 1,200 flight cancellations at O’Hare International Airport. Minneapolis Snowstorm: 15+ inches of snow and 50 mph wind gusts have filled emergency shelters to capacity. Detroit Ice Storm: Ice accumulations of up to an inch have caused hazardous road conditions and widespread damage. Kansas City Arctic Blast: Temperatures have plummeted to -20°F, with wind chills reaching -40°F. Unified National Response Emergency crews across both regions are working tirelessly to provide aid, clear roads, and ensure public safety. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell emphasized the importance of preparedness and community resilience during simultaneous disasters. Public Safety Advisory Avoid Travel: Treacherous conditions persist across impacted areas, with major interstates and Amtrak services suspended. Health Precautions: Limit outdoor exposure in extreme cold and avoid using drones near emergency zones in wildfire regions. Stay Updated TNW News remains committed to providing real-time updates on these developing stories. Visit TNWWeather.com and follow TNW Weather on social media for the latest information on evacuation notices, shelter resources, and travel advisories. Editor-in-Chief: Todd NardoneContent Producer: TNW News Center Team

Breaking News: Southern California Wildfires – A Catastrophic CrisisBy TNW News Breaking Team – January 15, 2025 Southern California remains under siege as devastating wildfires rage across the Los Angeles area, leaving destruction, tragedy, and uncertainty in their wake. Tens of thousands of residents are displaced, and firefighting crews are engaged in a relentless battle against the flames. Southern California Wildfires: Devastation and Danger At least 24 people have died in wildfires scorching the region, with containment efforts hindered by strong winds. A Red Flag Warning remains in effect through Wednesday evening as officials warn of ongoing critical fire risks due to gusts and dry conditions. Evacuations and Impact Evacuations: Over 88,000 residents are under mandatory evacuation orders, with 84,000 more on high alert. Officials have delayed discussions on repopulation until conditions improve. Missing Persons: Authorities are investigating 16 active missing person cases, with search efforts concentrated in the Altadena area. Search teams have recovered remains from multiple locations. Structural Damage: More than 12,000 structures have been destroyed across the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires, leaving entire neighborhoods unrecognizable. Containment Status and Firefighting Efforts As of Tuesday, the Palisades Fire has burned 23,713 acres and is only 18% contained. Firefighters face grueling conditions, including dry vegetation and erratic Santa Ana winds. More than 8,000 first responders, including 2,000 California National Guard members, are working tirelessly to contain the fires. Crews are deploying aerial water drops, bulldozers, and hand tools to establish fire lines and protect threatened communities. "The bravery and dedication of our firefighters cannot be overstated," said Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley. "Despite exhaustion and challenging conditions, they are giving everything to keep our communities safe." Federal and State Response President Joe Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom have committed robust resources to combat the fires and assist affected residents: California National Guard Deployment: 2,500 members are assisting in fire suppression and recovery efforts. FEMA Coordination: Disaster relief programs, temporary housing, and shelters are being rapidly deployed across affected areas. Arson Investigation: The Kenneth Fire is under investigation, with one suspect currently in custody. Vice President Kamala Harris issued a heartfelt statement urging residents to remain vigilant and follow safety guidance as the winds continue to pose a significant threat. Residents who registered for FEMA assistance will receive determination letters. If the letter indicates "not approved," it may not signify denial. Learn more about understanding these letters and next steps here: FEMA Determination Letter Info. Disaster Recovery Centers are operational to help Angelenos recover vital records such as birth certificates, driver’s licenses, and Social Security cards. Visit LACity.gov for resources. Note: These centers are NOT donation hubs. For ways to contribute, visit LACity.gov/LAStrong. Community Support and Resources Evacuees have access to various resources, including free gym access, communication services, and transportation vouchers. For a complete list of services, visit TNWWeather.com. Public Safety Advisory Officials stress the importance of preparedness as critical fire conditions persist for more than 6.5 million residents in Southern California. Residents are urged to stay informed, adhere to evacuation orders, and avoid using drones near firefighting zones to ensure aerial operations remain uninterrupted. Stay Updated TNW News remains committed to providing real-time updates on this developing story. Visit TNWWeather.com and follow TNW Weather on social media for the latest information on evacuation notices, shelter resources, and recovery efforts. Editor-in-Chief: Todd NardoneContent Producer: TNW News Center Team

Daylight Reveals Apocalyptic Scenes as Los Angeles is Devastated by Deadly Wildfires By TNW News Breaking Team Updated: Monday, January 13, 2025 Daylight Reveals Apocalyptic Scenes as Los Angeles is Devastated by Deadly Wildfires By TNW News Breaking Team Updated: Monday, January 13, 2025 Daylight Reveals Apocalyptic Scenes as Los Angeles is Devastated by Deadly Wildfires By TNW News Breaking Team Updated: Monday, January 13, 2025 LOS ANGELES – The apocalyptic and deadly wildfires ravaging Southern California remain extremely volatile on Monday morning, as a terrifying third day of critical fire weather continues to grip much of Los Angeles County. With hurricane-force winds fueling the flames, the fires have already scorched over 29,000 acres, claiming at least five lives, with officials warning that the human cost will likely rise in the coming days and weeks. "We're working with our coroner's office to figure out those numbers. So be patient with us when you ask us about death toll numbers right now. Frankly, we don't know yet. We eventually will," said LA County Sheriff Robert Luna. The infernos have ignited five major fires across the region, with more than 293,000 residents ordered to evacuate. Destruction has been widespread, leaving homes leveled, cars melted, and entire neighborhoods reduced to ash. Current Fire Updates Eaton Fire Location: Near Altadena. Impact: Five fatalities reported, with foothill neighborhoods heavily affected. Palisades Fire Location: Pacific Palisades, ignited by a backyard fire. Impact: Over 1,000 structures destroyed, including homes, businesses, and schools. Evacuation orders have been extended to Malibu. Hollywood Hills Fire Location: Near Runyon Canyon Park, reported on North Solar Drive. Impact: The fire continues to threaten homes in the Hollywood Hills, with authorities urging residents to prepare for possible evacuations. Hurst Fire Location: Near Diamond Road in Sylmar. Impact: Over 500 acres burned, with mandatory evacuations affecting over 44,000 people and warnings for an additional 27,000 residents. Woodley Fire Location: Sepulveda Basin. Status: Contained as of Sunday afternoon, no damage or injuries reported. City-wide Emergency Alert in LA County Sent in Error Nearly 10 million residents received an evacuation alert on Sunday evening, which was designed to go out to a much more limited area. Some residents panicked over the alert, which was linked to a technical issue, according to a county official. "All LA County residents just received a wireless emergency alert about evacuations from the county. There are NO updated evacuations in Santa Monica. EVACUATIONS IN SANTA MONICA ARE UNCHANGED," the city of Santa Monica stated. County authorities sent out a secondary alert minutes later, clarifying that the evacuation notice was only designed for residents in close proximity to the Kenneth Fire. Federal and State Assistance President Joe Biden addressed the nation, announcing that he had signed a fire management systems grant and a major disaster declaration in response to the fires. The federal government will cover 100% of the costs for 180 days. "Spare no expense," Biden said. Biden announced additional resources for California, including: 400 federal firefighters. 30+ helicopters and planes. 8 C-130 aircrafts from the Department of Defense equipped for wildfire suppression. 500 ground-clearing personnel to assist in containment and recovery efforts. The president also addressed water shortages caused by utility power shutoffs, explaining that generators would be used to restore pressure to hydrants. He praised local leaders and emergency responders for their efforts. Vice President Kamala Harris, whose home is in an evacuation zone, described the fires as "apocalyptic" and commended community members who have opened their homes to displaced families. She acknowledged the challenges posed by major insurers pulling coverage in California, emphasizing the need for long-term recovery support. California Governor Mobilizes Additional National Guard Troops In response to the unprecedented wildfires devastating Los Angeles County, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment of an additional 1,000 California National Guard service members, bringing the total to approximately 2,500 service members mobilized to assist with firefighting and public safety efforts. “We are deploying 1,000 more California National Guard service members to Los Angeles as we battle the unprecedented wildfires in the region. The approximately 2,500 total service members mobilized will continue assisting local public safety efforts in communities devastated by the fires.” — Governor Gavin Newsom, Los Angeles, CA The additional troops will bolster containment operations, aid evacuation efforts, and provide logistical support to emergency responders on the ground. Governor Newsom emphasized the state's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property during this crisis. Efforts to Support Evacuees Organizations across California continue to provide aid to those affected: California Fire Foundation: Financial assistance for wildfire victims and firefighter families. Salvation Army: Emergency housing, financial grants, and shelters. Red Cross: Operates shelters, offers meals, medical care, and recovery planning. Wildfire Recovery Fund: Focuses on long-term rebuilding efforts. Evacuation and Safety Measures Mandatory evacuations continue in the affected regions, with emergency shelters established for displaced residents. The National Weather Service has issued a "Particularly Dangerous Situation" Fire Weather Warning, urging residents to comply with evacuation orders and prepare for rapid changes in conditions. Transportation Assistance Uber is offering free rides (up to $40) to active evacuation sites. Residents can use the code WILDFIRE25 for rides to shelters such as Pasadena Civic Auditorium and Westwood Recreation Center. Health Advisory: Protect Yourself from Smoke With smoke drifting far from the fire zones, experts recommend staying indoors and using N95 masks if traveling outside. For tips on staying safe during this crisis, visit [this resource]. Ongoing Response and Updates CAL FIRE and local agencies are continuing efforts to contain the fires. Thousands of additional firefighters and emergency responders have been deployed to the region. Residents can stay informed through TNW Weather on TNWWeather.com, NewsBreak, and social media platforms like X, Instagram, and Threads. As the crisis unfolds, TNW News remains committed to providing live, up-to-the-minute coverage. Road Closures and Power Outages The fires have caused extensive road closures, and thousands remain without power as utility crews work to restore services. Due to dangerous conditions, local authorities urge people to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. Visuals of the Crisis Satellite timelapse videos from Colorado State University's Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA) highlight the explosive spread of the fires, fueled by relentless winds. New Developments Impact on Utilities and Services Southern California Edison reported that over 75,000 customers are without power due to damaged transmission lines and safety shutoffs. Crews are working around the clock to restore service but caution that high winds may delay progress. Residents in affected areas should prepare for extended outages. Community Support Drives Local community centers and faith-based organizations have started donation drives, collecting essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, and clothing for displaced families. For those looking to contribute, drop-off points have been established at community centers in Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Glendale. Educational Impact UCLA has canceled undergraduate classes and shifted graduate courses online due to poor air quality, although there is no direct fire danger to the campus. Nearby schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District have also suspended in-person classes and are providing virtual learning options. Wildfire Recovery Planning State officials are coordinating long-term recovery efforts, including debris removal, housing assistance, and financial aid for affected families. FEMA is working with local authorities to expedite applications for disaster relief programs. This is an ongoing crisis, and the situation remains fluid as officials work to protect lives and property. Stay with TNW News for continuous updates. Editor-in-Chief: Todd Nardone Content Producer: TNW News Center Team

Daylight Reveals Apocalyptic Scenes as Los Angeles is Devastated by Deadly Wildfires Daylight Reveals Apocalyptic Scenes as Los Angeles is Devastated by Deadly Wildfires Daylight Reveals Apocalyptic Scenes as Los Angeles is Devastated by Deadly Wildfires By TNW News Breaking Team Updated: Sunday, January 12, 2025 LOS ANGELES – The apocalyptic and deadly wildfires ravaging Southern California remain extremely volatile on Sunday morning, as a terrifying third day of critical fire weather continues to grip much of Los Angeles County. With hurricane-force winds fueling the flames, the fires have already scorched over 29,000 acres, claiming at least five lives, with officials warning that the human cost will likely rise in the coming days and weeks. "We're working with our coroner's office to figure out those numbers. So be patient with us when you ask us about death toll numbers right now. Frankly, we don't know yet. We eventually will," said LA County Sheriff Robert Luna. The infernos have ignited five major fires across the region, with more than 293,000 residents ordered to evacuate. Destruction has been widespread, leaving homes leveled, cars melted, and entire neighborhoods reduced to ash. Current Fire Updates Eaton Fire Location: Near Altadena. Impact: Five fatalities reported, with foothill neighborhoods heavily affected. Palisades Fire Location: Pacific Palisades, ignited by a backyard fire. Impact: Over 1,000 structures destroyed, including homes, businesses, and schools. Evacuation orders have been extended to Malibu. Hollywood Hills Fire Location: Near Runyon Canyon Park, reported on North Solar Drive. Impact: The fire continues to threaten homes in the Hollywood Hills, with authorities urging residents to prepare for possible evacuations. Hurst Fire Location: Near Diamond Road in Sylmar. Impact: Over 500 acres burned, with mandatory evacuations affecting over 44,000 people and warnings for an additional 27,000 residents. Woodley Fire Location: Sepulveda Basin. Status: Contained as of Wednesday afternoon, no damage or injuries reported. City-wide Emergency Alert in LA County Sent in Error Nearly 10 million residents received an evacuation alert on Thursday evening, which was designed to go out to a much more limited area. Some residents panicked over the alert, which was linked to a technical issue, according to a county official. "All LA County residents just received a wireless emergency alert about evacuations from the county. There are NO updated evacuations in Santa Monica. EVACUATIONS IN SANTA MONICA ARE UNCHANGED," the city of Santa Monica stated. County authorities sent out a secondary alert minutes later, clarifying that the evacuation notice was only designed for residents in close proximity to the Kenneth Fire. Federal and State Assistance President Joe Biden addressed the nation, announcing that he had signed a fire management systems grant and a major disaster declaration in response to the fires. The federal government will cover 100% of the costs for 180 days. "Spare no expense," Biden said. Biden announced additional resources for California, including: 400 federal firefighters. 30+ helicopters and planes. 8 C-130 aircrafts from the Department of Defense equipped for wildfire suppression. 500 ground-clearing personnel to assist in containment and recovery efforts. The president also addressed water shortages caused by utility power shutoffs, explaining that generators would be used to restore pressure to hydrants. He praised local leaders and emergency responders for their efforts. Vice President Kamala Harris, whose home is in an evacuation zone, described the fires as "apocalyptic" and commended community members who have opened their homes to displaced families. She acknowledged the challenges posed by major insurers pulling coverage in California, emphasizing the need for long-term recovery support. California Governor Mobilizes Additional National Guard Troops In response to the unprecedented wildfires devastating Los Angeles County, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment of an additional 1,000 California National Guard service members, bringing the total to approximately 2,500 service members mobilized to assist with firefighting and public safety efforts. “We are deploying 1,000 more California National Guard service members to Los Angeles as we battle the unprecedented wildfires in the region. The approximately 2,500 total service members mobilized will continue assisting local public safety efforts in communities devastated by the fires.” — Governor Gavin Newsom, Los Angeles, CA The additional troops will bolster containment operations, aid evacuation efforts, and provide logistical support to emergency responders on the ground. Governor Newsom emphasized the state's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property during this crisis. Efforts to Support Evacuees Organizations across California continue to provide aid to those affected: California Fire Foundation: Financial assistance for wildfire victims and firefighter families. Salvation Army: Emergency housing, financial grants, and shelters. Red Cross: Operates shelters, offers meals, medical care, and recovery planning. Wildfire Recovery Fund: Focuses on long-term rebuilding efforts. Evacuation and Safety Measures Mandatory evacuations continue in the affected regions, with emergency shelters established for displaced residents. The National Weather Service has issued a "Particularly Dangerous Situation" Fire Weather Warning, urging residents to comply with evacuation orders and prepare for rapid changes in conditions. Transportation Assistance Uber is offering free rides (up to $40) to active evacuation sites. Residents can use the code WILDFIRE25 for rides to shelters such as Pasadena Civic Auditorium and Westwood Recreation Center. Health Advisory: Protect Yourself from Smoke With smoke drifting far from the fire zones, experts recommend staying indoors and using N95 masks if traveling outside. For tips on staying safe during this crisis, visit [this resource]. Ongoing Response and Updates CAL FIRE and local agencies are continuing efforts to contain the fires. Thousands of additional firefighters and emergency responders have been deployed to the region. Residents can stay informed through TNW Weather on TNWWeather.com, NewsBreak, and social media platforms like X, Instagram, and Threads. As the crisis unfolds, TNW News remains committed to providing live, up-to-the-minute coverage. Road Closures and Power Outages The fires have caused extensive road closures, and thousands remain without power as utility crews work to restore services. Due to dangerous conditions, local authorities urge people to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. Visuals of the Crisis Satellite timelapse videos from Colorado State University's Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA) highlight the explosive spread of the fires, fueled by relentless winds. New Developments Impact on Utilities and Services Southern California Edison reported that over 75,000 customers are without power due to damaged transmission lines and safety shutoffs. Crews are working around the clock to restore service but caution that high winds may delay progress. Residents in affected areas should prepare for extended outages. Community Support Drives Local community centers and faith-based organizations have started donation drives, collecting essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, and clothing for displaced families. For those looking to contribute, drop-off points have been established at community centers in Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Glendale. Educational Impact UCLA has canceled undergraduate classes and shifted graduate courses online due to poor air quality, although there is no direct fire danger to the campus. Nearby schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District have also suspended in-person classes and are providing virtual learning options. Wildfire Recovery Planning State officials are coordinating long-term recovery efforts, including debris removal, housing assistance, and financial aid for affected families. FEMA is working with local authorities to expedite applications for disaster relief programs. This is an ongoing crisis, and the situation remains fluid as officials work to protect lives and property. Stay with TNW News for continuous updates. Editor-in-Chief: Todd Nardone Content Producer: TNW News Center Team