California in State of Emergency Over Spreading Wildfires  
Tuesday, October 23rd, 2007

Wildfires continue to rage in Southern California today, as President Bush issued an emergency in the state this morning, and authorized the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate disaster relief in the seven counties that have thusfar been affected by the spreading flames.

Over 250,000 people were forced to flee their homes, around 10,000 of them staying in a San Diego area football stadium that was converted into an emergency shelter.  At least 700 homes have been destroyed, and The National Weather Service warns that "strong and damaging winds" will continue around Los Angeles throughout mid-afternoon.  High wind warnings may be issued for other areas by tonight.

The hot, dry winds at up to 65 miles per hour are spreading the flames.  Hazardous driving conditions will persist due to the power of the winds, as well as blowing dust and sand reducing visibility.  The high wind advisory has been issued until at least 6 p.m.  For up-to-the-minute warnings, check out The National Weather Service's California Advisory page.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has requested aid from 1,500 National Guard Troops, including 200 from the Mexican border, to assist with firefighting and evacuations.

Let's hope FEMA handles this one better than Hurricane Katrina.

Our thoughts are with those of you who are in and around the affected areas...stay safe!

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