President Donald Trump approves expedited request for major disaster declaration during California fires

SAN FRANCISCO -- President Donald Trump says he has approved an expedited request for a major disaster declaration for the state of California on Monday.

"Wanted to respond quickly in order to alleviate some of the incredible suffering going on," Trump tweeted.

At least 31 people have died in fires raging in northern and southern California.

PHOTOS: Camp Fire burns through Butte County, California

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In this aerial photograph, an evacuee encampment is seen at a Walmart parking lot in Chico, California on November 19, 2018.

Josh Edelson for the Washington Post

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