Governor Newsom Declares State of Emergency in Humboldt County Following Mile Post 18 Fire Damage
Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in Humboldt County, California, due to the damage caused by the Mile Post 18 (MP18) Fire. The fire, which started on August 7 near Highway 96, burned 7,610 acres, including parts of the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation, before being contained in early September. The declaration, issued on November 10, directs Caltrans to seek federal assistance for the repair and reconstruction of damaged highways. The proclamation highlights that the fire led to road closures and significant damage to local roads, including issues such as rockfall, fallen-tree hazards, and damage to culverts, guardrails, and pavement. State agencies are instructed to deploy personnel, equipment, and facilities for emergency response, and residents are advised to follow instructions from emergency officials. Additionally, the declaration allows Caltrans to request immediate aid through the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief Program to cover highway repair costs.