It remains unclear how much the city and its mayor will ultimately be to blame for the explosive horror of the Palisades fire.

Employee raises and other expenses are expanding the Los Angeles Fire Department's budget. At the same time, the agency has had to scale back operations in recent months.

L.A. Fire chief Kristin Crowley pointed the finger at Mayor Karen Bass and budget cuts to the L.A. Fire Department. And she’s not alone. But, what’s the reality? And is this a matter of politics or a matter of math?

With rain possibly arriving this weekend, Mayor Karen Bass issued an emergency order Tuesday to shore up burn areas and prevent hazardous runoff in areas affected by the recent wildfires.