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California Battles Over 1,000 Wildfires

There was a 'red flag warning' in effect in Northern California until 8 a.m. on Monday June 30th due to approximately 1,420 fires in the region. Although there have been no reports of new fires, there is believed to be little relief in the upcoming days and weeks. This is reflected in the below average rainfall for the season, and the dried out vegetation that will continue to contribute to these fires.

About 19,500 firefighters, with the assistance of 926 helicopters, are working on surrounding some of the largest fires, which have destroyed more than 50 buildings.

An emergency declaration has been made by President Bush, providing 4 Marine Corps helicopters, remote fire sensing from NASA, federal firefighters, and FEMA.

In addition to the 'red flag warning,' air quality specialists have asked that resident stay indoors to limit smoke exposure.

The majority of the 1,420 fires were sparked by lightning, and have since burned 364,600 acres, or about 570 square miles.

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