In the aftermath of the devastating January firestorm in Los Angeles, questions persist about the failure to issue timely evacuation alerts for west Altadena residents. The Eaton fire claimed 18 lives, with 17 deaths occurring in Altadena. Nearly five months later, two scenarios have emerged: human error in the chain of command or technical glitches in sending alerts.
An independent investigation, launched after the incident, remains ongoing. Officials have been tight-lipped, citing the ongoing inquiry as a reason for delaying responses to public records requests. According to a report by U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia, a technical error by software company Genasys led to faulty alerts. These alerts were intended for a small area near Calabasas but were sent across a vast region due to local network outages.
The report calls for federal oversight of emergency alert systems, highlighting the need for reliable and trustworthy systems. Garcia emphasized the importance of reform, stating, “We’re talking about loss of life and property, and people’s confidence in our emergency notification systems.” He urged Congress to close gaps in alerting system performance and certification.
The report also suggests more federal funding for planning, equipment, and training for the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS). It presses the Federal Communications Commission to establish performance standards and ensure mobile providers include location-aware maps by December 2026.
As the investigation continues, the push for greater oversight faces challenges, especially amid efforts by President Trump and U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to dismantle FEMA. Garcia expressed concern over the stability of FEMA leadership and the need for the agency’s continued existence.
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