San Francisco: As massive destructive wildfires continue to spread across regions in Northern California, the United States has secured a major disaster declaration from President Joe Biden.

State Governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement that "California is grateful for President Biden's swift approval of our request and the ongoing work of our heroic firefighters and emergency responders to protect communities across Northern California."  He noted that the declaration makes vital resources available as the state continues to work in lockstep with local and federal partners to meet the challenge of these catastrophic wildfires and support communities in recovery, as per reports. The request approved by Biden is specific to the Dixie and River fires.

Newsom had submitted the request for a major disaster declaration on Monday to bolster the ongoing emergency response to wildfires and support impacted communities in Lassen, Nevada, Placer and Plumas counties in Northern California. Other fires, including the Caldor Fire, may be included once the conditions allow state, local and federal officials to safely assess the scope of damage, according to the release from the governor's office.  The declaration will help residents in the impacted counties through eligibility for programs and support that can include housing assistance, counselling, medical services and legal services.

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