The National Guard has been sent to California to help those who are stranded in their houses because of seven feet of snow.
Following a massive snowstorm on Wednesday that left thousands of people without electricity and stranded inside their homes, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a state of emergency in 13 counties.
The governor also sent the National Guard to help the Office of Emergency Services, California Highway Patrol, and Caltrans with the emergency response in the affected counties, which include Los Angeles, Nevada, San Bernardino, and Santa Barbara.
Due to the exceptionally severe storm, which dumped up to seven feet (2.13 metres) of snow in some locations in San Bernardino county, many residents have been stuck in their homes for days. Social media posts feature residences with their doors open facing solid snow walls.
Highway 18, a key thoroughfare, had to be closed due to the weather, and only drivers escorted by police and transport officials were permitted to pass. Residents have pleaded with Newsom for assistance as food and water supplies are running short.
Miyah Nelson, a resident of Lake Arrowhead, told the local news station KTLA that there are crumbling roofs all over the place and that rescue efforts are needed. “Food and water supplies are running short in all of the stores. Little petrol is available at the petrol stations, she claimed.
READ ALSO: Israel criticises Brazil for letting Iranian vessels dock in Rio de Janeiro
San Bernadino County Supervisor Dawn Rowe assured locals on Wednesday that “ploughing of the roadways is continuing 24/7” while state agencies coordinate to send out additional snow ploughs and road staff. Given the normally sunny weather in southern California, it’s possible that local personnel have never experienced such harsh weather. Snow has not fallen in Anaheim, which is well-known for being the home of the Disneyland amusement park, since 1882.
According to reports, officials are working to escort power companies into the area and have opened two shelters for stranded or in need citizens. As of Wednesday, about 100,000 people were without electricity.
In order to avoid red tape impeding the urgent storm response, the governor’s emergency declaration permits some agencies to defy local authority and break standard spending and procurement limitations.
