California Storm Prompts Biden to Approve Emergency Assistance as Evacuations and Flooding Hazards Persist

A powerful storm known as the “Pineapple Express” has hit California, bringing torrential rain and prompting widespread evacuation orders. The storm, which is gathering warm, subtropical moisture from Hawaii, is the first of two atmospheric river storms expected to hit the region. At least one person has died in the storm, with a further employee injured after a roof collapsed at a coffee distribution warehouse in Oakland. President Biden has approved an emergency declaration request from Governor Gavin Newsom, authorizing the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to support state and local responses.

California Governor Proclaims State of Emergency in 21 Counties as Storm Wreaks Havoc

Governor Newsom has already proclaimed a state of emergency in 21 counties, activating the California National Guard and other state agencies to respond to storm-related emergencies.

“California is deploying every tool we have to protect communities from the relentless and deadly storms battering our state,” he said. “In these dangerous and challenging conditions, it is crucial that Californians remain vigilant and follow all guidance from local emergency responders.”

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