2008: Year of the Fire

Raging Fire Forces Evacuation in Silicon Valley

As the wildfire consumed more than 3,000 acres with no containment, the governor issued an emergency declaration for Santa Cruz County.

About 300 people whose homes are in the path of the rapidly spreading fire have been evacuated under a mandatory order, according to officials in city of Gilroy, California.

It’s believed that the fire, which is moving southeast toward the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, could grow to 10,000 acres before it burns out.

Acording to CalFire at least 12 structures have been burned, but no injuries have been reported. Power is out in much of the area due to falling trees.

Some 600 firefighters are fighting the blaze and another 2,000 are expected to arrive soon. (Source)

Sun through the smoke! (Credit: Michael Congdon, via Mercury News.) Image may be subject to copyright. See FEWW Fair Use Notice!

The experts at Creating A Sustainable Future (CASF) believe that 2008-2010 would be the worst ever period for catastrophic wildfires throughout the United States and elsewhere on the globe!

• Fire map

• Acres burned: 3,000, including at least 15 structures. (Fire officials say it could grow to 10,000 or more.) No injuries reported.
• Evacuation information: Evacuation facilities set up at Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville. For information, 335-6717, 335-6718, 335-6719.
• Volunteer:Volunteer Centers of Santa Cruz County, call 427-5070
• Animal Services: Santa Cruz Animal Services helping with large animal evacuations. For information, 454-7303.
• Evacuation checklist

Related Links:

• Climate-enhanced catastrophes in the US
• UPDATE 1-Wildfire near Silicon Valley forces evacuations
• California eyes another tough wildfire season
• Fire managers predict bad year for blazes

Video Links:

• California wildfire burns