False Alert Adds Panic Amid Deadly Wildfires

A technical error led to an erroneous evacuation alert being sent to nearly 10 million Los Angeles County residents amidst ongoing devastating wildfires. The alert, meant only for areas near the Kenneth Fire in Calabasas and Agoura Hills, mistakenly warned the entire county to prepare for evacuation, inducing widespread panic. While a corrective message was quickly issued, the mistake added to the anxiety of residents already on edge due to the fires, which have claimed at least ten lives and destroyed thousands of structures. County officials, including Kevin McGowan of the Office of Emergency Management, have apologized for the mistake and committed to providing accurate information moving forward. Criticism has mounted over the handling of the crisis, with issues such as dry fire hydrants and inadequate emergency management being highlighted. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and other officials are facing increased scrutiny as the region grapples with the rapidly spreading fires.