Raging California wildfire in new surge, 280 homes destroyed
Pastor Dale Morgan
Raging California wildfire in new surge, 280 homes destroyed*
Wildfire rages in South Lake Tahoe, California (26 June)
Tallac Village near South Lake Tahoe has been evacuated
Firefighters trying to contain a raging wildfire in California have
suffered a setback, after the blaze jumped a defence line forcing
hundreds to flee.
The authorities have warned that strong winds forecast for the Lake
Tahoe area on Wednesday could fan the flames.
Earlier, the US Forest Service said the fire, which has burned 2,730
acres since Sunday, was 40% contained and would be under control by the
weekend.
The wildfire has so far destroyed at least 280 homes and forced 1,000
people to leave.
California has declared a state of emergency and may seek federal help.
Investigators have said they think the fire started in an area popular
with runners and youths in the resort area along the California-Nevada
state line.
However, forest service officials said there were no indications that
the blaze was started intentionally.
Dry winter
Firefighters were working to protect Tallac Village near South Lake
Tahoe when the blaze penetrated a fire line, prompting the evacuation of
the area.
Earlier on Tuesday the wildfire continued to burn along the uninhabited
slopes to the north and west of Lake Tahoe but crews were able to take
advantage of low winds and high humidity.
Some 145 fire engines, 54 crews and 11 helicopters are being used to
fight the blaze. One minor casualty has been reported.
Before the fire started, officials had warned of a more serious wildfire
season than average due to an unusually dry winter.
Meanwhile, damp, cooler weather has also helped contain a wildfire on
the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska.
The blaze in the popular recreation area south of Anchorage has spread
across 90 square miles (233sq km) and destroyed more than 80 homes.