California Governor, Jerry Brown has declared a state of emergency as wildfires blaze in 15 counties across the Golden State, Huffington Post reported.
The wildfires, which were reported to have been up to 18 major fires has occurred from as far north as Humboldt County and as far south as San Diego County.
The Rocky Fire, in Northern California’s Lake County, has burned 18,000 acres since July 29 and is just 5 percent contained, making it the region’s largest active fire. Hundreds of residents have been evacuated from their homes as nearly 1,000 firefighters attempt to contain the blaze. About 8,000 firefighters have been activated statewide.
“California’s severe drought and extreme weather have turned much of the state into a tinderbox,” Brown said in a Friday statement. “Our courageous firefighters are on the front lines and we’ll do everything we can to help them.”
The governor’s proclamation directs all state agencies to assist with emergency relief, and activates the state’s National Guard to aid with disaster response. Brown also urged California residents to heed any safety warnings from emergency personnel in their area.
While wildfires are common in California’s dry, hot summers, the state’s historic drought has made it even more difficult for firefighters to control the blazes. According to the state’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, there have been over 1,300 more fires this year than the average number during the same period over the last five years, Huffignton Post reported.
Source: Huffignton Post
