L.A. Council Demands Water Utility Explain Firefighting Issues

US-WEATHER-FIRE

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The Los Angeles City Council is demanding answers from the L.A. Department of Water and Power (LADWP) regarding water access issues faced by firefighters during the Palisades Fire. On Tuesday (January 14), the council approved 21 of 24 special motions introduced by Councilwoman Traci Park, who represents Pacific Palisades. The motions call for improved communication protocols between the LADWP and the fire department to update reservoir statuses.

Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered an independent investigation into the loss of water pressure from fire hydrants and the unavailability of water from the 117-million-gallon Santa Ynez Reservoir, which was offline for repairs when the fire started last week. According to the Los Angeles Times, the reservoir had been out of commission since February due to repairs on its cover, leaving it empty for nearly a year.

The lack of water pressure and dry hydrants in higher-elevation areas of the Palisades hindered firefighting efforts. Former LADWP general manager Martin Adams noted that while the reservoir's availability might have helped, it would not have completely resolved the issue. LADWP spokesperson Ellen Cheng stated that the investigation would help identify new capabilities needed for water systems to support firefighting efforts.

The Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, has destroyed thousands of homes and decimated over 40,000 acres. Governor Newsom expressed concern over the water supply issues, emphasizing the need for answers to prevent future occurrences. The LADWP has initiated its own investigation into water resiliency, as reported by TIME.


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