USA (MNN) ― Residents of fire-ravaged areas in Southern California are returning to their homes after a week of uncertainty.
The natural disaster provoked the biggest government emergency mobilization since the 2005 hurricane that flooded New Orleans and devastated the Gulf Coast.
According to state officials, the fires destroyed some 2,000 homes and a half-million acres of public, residential and agricultural land. Preliminary estimates put the financial toll well above $1 billion (USD), but officials think the final figure will likely be higher.
World Hope International's disaster relief volunteers Greg and Jan Cantor are assessing the situation to assist WHI's volunteer disaster response. Additionally, WHI program manager for disaster relief Andrea Babin is in contact with federal and local disaster relief agencies to clarify safety issues and potential areas of greatest need.
The earlier danger posed by the fires made volunteer disaster relief impossible. However, as fire departments and authorities have been able to capitalize on a break in the weather, they've been able to bring the fires under control.
WHI will continue to assess the need for response and determine actions for volunteers wishing to help. Pray that the volunteers will be the hands and feet of Christ.
