Royal | News - Prince Ricardo De La Cerda
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have offered their Montecito mansion as a sanctuary for those fleeing the devastating LA wildfires. However, the Sussexes themselves are also bracing for evacuation as the rapidly spreading fires could potentially threaten their own home.
While the affluent California neighbourhood has yet to be impacted by the fires, which remain some distance from the town, the speed at which the flames are spreading has led to speculation that Harry and Meghan are ready to evacuate with their children if necessary. Sources suggest they are prepared to enter “crisis mode”.
Their security team is said to be organising an evacuation plan and packing essentials for their children, Archie, five, and Lilibet, three. A neighbour commented: “It’s not chaos here yet but the fire is moving fast and we are not taking any chances.”
The couple and their neighbours have been provided with public safety survival kits containing a solar charger, flashlight, protective equipment, ice, water, snacks and safety pamphlets.
As the fires continue to wreak havoc and Montecito remains safe for now, it is understood that the Sussexes have invited friends and family who have had to evacuate due to the nearby fires to stay with them.
It is also believed that the couple has donated supplies to those affected by the blazes, including clothing, children’s items, and other essential supplies, reports The Mirror.
The devastating wildfires in California have claimed 23 lives, destroyed communities and forced thousands to flee their homes, including those in celebrity-favoured areas. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, have publicly addressed the fires for the first time via a statement on their website.
They also suggested a range of charities and initiatives to support, including fire services and animal groups. Their statement read: “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 further urged: “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. Be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbours to see if they need help evacuating. “Some families and people have been left with nothing.
“Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys and other essentials. The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those in need”
Airbnb and 211LA, a charitable organisation offering housing advice, have teamed up to provide free temporary accommodation for those affected by the fires, according to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. They also revealed that their long-standing partner, World Central Kitchen, is providing meals to both victims and emergency service crews.
Other organisations involved include Cal Fire and LA Fire Department Foundation, which are supporting firefighters, and the Animal Wellness Foundation, which is providing shelter for evacuated animals. Baby2baby is supplying nappies, clothing and emergency kits to families in need, while Compton Cowboys is offering emergency horse transport.
All Power Books, a local bookshop, is keeping its doors open to distribute aid and offer supplies and water for pick-up, the Sussexes added.
Among those who have confirmed their homes have been destroyed in the fires are TV personality Paris Hilton, US actor Billy Crystal, The Princess Bride star Cary Elwes, talk show host Ricki Lake and Oscar-winning songwriter Diane Warren.