Download the all-new Republic app:

Published 11:11 IST, August 20th 2020

Crews battle wildfires across northern California

Crews were battling wildfires in the San Francisco Bay Area and thousands of people were under orders to evacuate on Wednesday, as hundreds of wildfires blazed across the state amid a blistering heat wave now in its second week.

Follow: Google News Icon
  • share
null | Image: self
Advertisement

Crews were battling wildfires in the San Francisco Bay Area and thousands of people were under orders to evacuate on Wednesday, as hundreds of wildfires blazed across the state amid a blistering heat wave now in its second week.

California Governor Gavin Newsom blamed the extraordinary weather and lightning strikes for the 367 known fires, including 23 major fires or groups of fires.

Advertisement

He said the state has recorded nearly 11,000 lightning strikes in 72 hours.

At least 50 structures were destroyed, including some homes, and 50 damaged.

Advertisement

11:11 IST, August 20th 2020