As the most destructive fire in Los Angeles area history rages, Mayor Karen Bass faces criticism over the timing of an overseas trip and budget cuts made months ago that affected the city’s fire department.

As crews continue to put out multiple fires across Los Angeles County, residents have expressed worry about the city’s insufficient response. Criticism includes not being warned about the likelihood of the fires even happening as well as a shortage of both firefighters and water.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is facing criticism for being out of the country when the devastating wildfires began to ravage the city.