Other states help California battle huge wildfires

As wildfires rage across Northern California, Gov. Gavin Newsom says he is seeking assistance from other states and the federal government.

Newsom said that he has put in calls to other governors and is receiving firefighting help from numerous states.

The Democratic governor, who has sparred publicly with US President Donald Trump over firefighting efforts, said that despite the public statements, "the working relationship privately has been a very effective one."

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention, or Cal Fire, says there are nearly 12,000 firefighters battling nearly two dozen major fires across the state, most sparked by lightning strikes that began on Saturday, August 15.  Over 771,000 acres have burned.

The wildfires that have claimed at least six lives and forced tens of thousands of people from their homes.

Three major collections of fires are threatening tens of thousands of homes in the San Francisco Bay Area and central California.

More evacuations are expected as hot and gusty weather extends into Friday.

State fire officials say at least four civilians have died in the fire areas, as well as a Pacific Gas & Electric worker and a helicopter pilot.

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