Forest fires and climate change are interconnected (archive photo). UN chief expresses condolences over California fires UN
UN Secretary-General António Guterres is deeply shocked by the widespread devastation caused by wildfires in the Los Angeles area of California, USA. The UN Secretary-General’s press service made this statement today.
Guterres expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and conveyed words of support to the tens of thousands of people who were forced to flee their homes, as well as those who lost their homes as a result of the fires.
The Secretary-General praised the courage of the thousands of firefighters and rescuers who are working in extremely difficult conditions to cope with the disaster and protect people’s lives.
This tragedy is a reminder of the devastating impact of climate change and the need for increased measures to prevent and combat natural disasters, the statement said.
The UN chief expressed solidarity with the victims and rescuers, stressing the world body’s readiness to provide assistance if needed.
At least five fires in the Los Angeles area, including one in the Hollywood Hills, have burned more than 45 square miles, according to media reports.
More than 137,000 people have been forced to flee their homes, and at least five people have died, according to reports.