Washington, 9 January 2025 (dpa/MIA) - Outgoing US President Joe Biden has cancelled his planned trip to Italy due to wildfires raging across the Los Angeles area.

In a short statement, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden had travelled to Los Angeles on Wednesday to meet with police, fire and emergency personnel.

At least five people have died as at least six wildfires burn across the Los Angeles area, US media have reported.

On his return to Washington, Biden made the decision to cancel his upcoming trip to Italy to "remain focused on directing the full federal response in the days ahead," Jean-Pierre said.

Biden had planned to have one more audience with Pope Francis in the Vatican on Friday. The US president had also planned to meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during his time in Italy.

Photo: EPA