California Governor Gavin Newsom described the recent Los Angeles wildfires as potentially one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history, citing the unprecedented scale of destruction and the financial toll. Speaking on NBC's Meet the Press, Newsom emphasized the magnitude of the fires, which have claimed at least 16 lives, destroyed thousands of structures, and caused billions of dollars in damages.

"I think it will be in terms of just the costs associated with it, in terms of the scale and scope," Newsom stated. He compared the disaster's financial impact to that of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which caused over $200 billion in damages.

The Eaton and Palisades fires, which have collectively scorched tens of thousands of acres, have already set records as among the most destructive in California's history. Risk analysts estimate insured losses could surpass $20 billion, eclipsing the 2018 Camp Fire.

Newsom called for an independent investigation into water supply issues that hampered firefighting efforts in the critical early hours. Reports of dry fire hydrants sparked outrage and political attacks, including from President-elect Donald Trump. On social media, Trump blamed Newsom and outgoing President Joe Biden for the crisis, writing, "NO WATER IN THE FIRE HYDRANTS, NO MONEY IN FEMA. THIS IS WHAT JOE BIDEN IS LEAVING ME. THANKS JOE!"

Newsom dismissed Trump's claims, particularly allegations that water supply was diverted to protect endangered fish species. Trump is “”somehow connecting the delta smelt to this fire, which is inexcusable because it's inaccurate," Newsom said, adding that the crisis was caused by a combination of extreme weather and resource limitations.

The fires have highlighted vulnerabilities in Los Angeles' infrastructure as the city prepares to host several major global events, including the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. Newsom announced plans for a "Marshall Plan" to rebuild and strengthen the region.

"We're already organizing a 'Marshall Plan,'" Newsom said. "We have a team looking at reimagining L.A. 2.0, ensuring everyone-coastal and inland-can participate in recovery and future growth." He detailed ongoing discussions with city officials, nonprofits, business leaders, and labor organizations to coordinate rebuilding efforts.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who was criticized by Trump for being absent during the initial outbreak of the fires, has returned to oversee recovery efforts. Newsom expressed confidence in her leadership, stating, "I have absolute faith in our community and our leaders."

Newsom also praised Biden for issuing a major disaster declaration that unlocked federal aid for California, adding, "I'm blessed on behalf of 40 million Americans that Joe Biden is president of the United States and did what he did immediately."

The fires, fueled by relentless winds and drought conditions, have drawn comparisons to some of the most catastrophic natural disasters in the nation's history. Eleven of the 16 confirmed fatalities occurred in the Eaton Fire, which firefighters are struggling to contain despite improvements.

Beyond recovery, Newsom stressed the need for answers about the state's water infrastructure. "Was it just overwhelm? Pipes? Electricity? Or was it the 99-mile-an-hour winds that made any firefight impossible?" he asked.

While Trump has criticized state leadership, Newsom extended an olive branch, saying, "To the extent that we can work with the same spirit of collaboration with Donald Trump, I hope we can."

As California begins the arduous task of recovery, Newsom underscored the importance of long-term planning. "This is an opportunity for him to shine, for this country to shine, for California and this community to shine," he said, referencing the upcoming Olympics.