Government emergency alert systems failed to notify residents during the Los Angeles wildfires, leading to delayed evacuations and fatalities in neighborhoods that received no warnings. Los Angeles County officials approved an outside review of alert systems after residents expressed concerns about the lack of notifications during the fires.
The Watch Duty app became crucial for residents seeking information, as many did not receive alerts from official sources.
The city’s 2024 hazard mitigation plan aims to address gaps in alert systems, but the county’s plan lacks focus on emergency notifications.
