Harry & Meghan break silence as ‘apocalypse’ wildfires rip through LA mansions miles from £24m Montecito family home
PRINCE Harry and Meghan Markle have broken their silence on the "apocalyptic" wildfires that have ripped through multiple mansions in Los Angeles.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who live just 80 miles away from the chaos, called for people to take in evacuated friends, family and pets if they can.
The series of major fires in California have killed five people, ravaged communities and sent thousands of people fleeing their properties, including areas dotted with celebrity homes.
Harry and Meghan - who live in Montecito - recommended a list of fire services charities, animal groups and other initiatives to support.
They said on their website: "In the last few days, wildfires in southern California have raged through neighbourhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centres, and so much more - affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life."
The Sussexes added: "If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate, and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do."
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Harry and Meghan's 16 bedroom mansion, which also boasts a two-bed guest house, faced a power cut amid the wild fires.
It comes as...
- Five people have died as uncontrolled wildfires engulf Los Angeles
- At least 130,000 have been evacuated and schools have closed
- Nearly 400,000 homes are left without power as over 2,000 buildings destroyed and 30,000 acres burned
- Firefighters are "maxed out" and reportedly running out of water
- Harrowing footage shows the city up in flames
- Celebrity homes have been torched, including A-listers like Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, and Anthony Hopkins
- Joe Biden slammed for announcing granddaughter's baby news during LA fire presser
The duke and duchess are understood to have already donated supplies.
It is believed Harry and Meghan contributed clothing, children's items, and other essential supplies.
The Sussexes also invited into their home friends and loved ones who had been forced to evacuate, it is understood.
Multi-million dollar mansions have been left completely charred with the wildfires branded one of the most destructive blazes in the city's history.
Officials have declared a state of emergency and citizens are preparing themselves for the situation to get worse.
The infernos have consumed parts of Malibu, the Hollywood Hills, and Runyon Canyon, turning the region into a fiery battleground.
His wife, Emma, took to Instagram to share the couple’s terrifying ordeal, describing scenes of "helicopters, thick black smoke, and howling winds."
The Sussexes' statement continued: "Organizations such as José Andrés’ , which has been a longtime partner of , are serving meals to both first responders and victims of the fire.
" and and others are working closely to support firefighters who risk their lives, bravely showing up in these high-risk environments to help save homes, families, and communities in need.
" have partnered to provide free, temporary housing for those who have been displaced.
" is providing essential supplies including diapers, clothing, hygiene products, and emergency kits to families in need.
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and many others are staying open for emergency use, offering supplies and water for pickup while working tirelessly to distribute essentials to those affected. "