An independent investigation has been ordered by California Gov. Newsom after hydrants ran dry.

Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, called for an independent probe into the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) following a harrowing incident where firefighters encountered a dire predicament: depleted fire hydrants.

It was evident from the start of the firestorms in Los Angeles County on January 7 that our public infrastructure would face immense pressure.

Losing power to hydrants during the fire in Los Angeles likely hindered the recovery process, according to Newsom.

"The lack of water pressure in local fire hydrants during the fires and the unavailability of water supplies from the Santa Ynez Reservoir are concerning to both me and the community. Although fire hydrants are not meant to put out wildfires over vast areas, losing supplies from them may have hindered the firefighting efforts and put some homes and evacuation routes at risk."

The governor of California stated that "we require answers" and has instructed officials to prepare for an independent investigation to determine the reasons behind the loss of water supply and water pressure.

To determine the causes of lost water supply and water pressure in municipal water systems during fire events, and to identify measures that local governments can implement to provide adequate water supply for emergency response during future catastrophic events, I have directed state water and firefighting officials to prepare an independent after-incident report.

"Please have LADWP and Los Angeles County officials promptly conduct a thorough review of their local water supply preparation and response protocols to guarantee an adequate water supply during emergencies, and identify any factors contributing to the loss of water pressure and inaccessibility of water sources."

L.A. Mayor Karen Bass stated on Thursday that up to 20% of the city's hydrants were dry, prompting Newsom's directive. She added that as of Thursday, firefighters had completely stopped tapping hydrants.

The Pacific Palisades' hydrants were not adequately pressurized due to high demand, which led the LADWP to stop pumping aqueducts and groundwater into the system.

At least 10,000 homes and buildings were engulfed in flames, leaving many dry.