1,000,000 Evacuated as Fires Rage
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:16 pm . by el nuko
In the largest mass evacuation in California history, and the largest in the United States since Hurricane Katrina, California authorities have declared a state of emergency as over 500,000 acres continue to burn. Mass evacuations have been ordered from Santa Barbara to San Diego. Over 1200 homes and businesses in Sand Diego have burned, and more than 40 persons have been reported injured.
The winds are not expected to die down until Wednesday night. Read more
In Orange County, fire officials are now stating that the Orange County Santiago fire was purposely set and there is speculation that other fires may have also been deliberate. See Interactive Map
Fire officials found three separate “points of origin,” all near the intersection of Silverado Canyon Road and Santiago Canyon Road. Two were on one side of the road, and the third was on the other. “Whoever did this knew what they were doing,” said Kris Concepcion, a fire authority battalion chief. Also, the fire traveled 3 miles in its first 20 minutes when it was ignited about 6 p.m. Sunday, he said. Source
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Fire crews and Red Cross volunteers are on their way from this area; there must be quite an Army of aid workers and firefighters materializing from across the U.S.
I was surprised at the number of homes that were burning but I shouldn’t be; in California, I believe they avoid masonry buildings due to earthquakes.
It is truly a heart-breaking thing to watch. Thoughts and Prayers for those folks.
Hi Nuke,
Yes, heartbreaking indeed. I have to admit, it is also inspiring to watch the courage and integrity most of them are exhibiting. They come across as self sufficient citizens, helping each other the best way they can. They should be proud and we should keep them in our prayers.