Wildfires are wreaking havoc in Eastern, Central, and Alberta Canada. I hope those impacted will be safe and cared for. I love Canada and may those fires be extinguished as soon as possible. May those working to put the fires out have what they need to get things under control to save lives and property and more.
To all my California friends stay safe during this emergency. Wildfires are nothing to take lightly. Keep us posted as to your situation.
Gusty Santa Ana winds and bone-dry conditions continued to stoke major wildfires in Southern California on Thursday as Ventura County fire officials said the battle there could last well over a week.
By Thursday evening, the Thomas fire had consumed 115,000 acres, destroyed 427 structures in Ventura and damaged at least 85 more, authorities said. Another 12 structures were destroyed in the unincorporated area of Ventura County.
Via More than 400 structures destroyed in 115,000-acre Ventura County wildfire – LA Times
My heart goes out to these people. This fire is as dangerous and wide spread as any in recent memory. It reminds me of the fires of The Great Smoky Mountains last year in and around Gatlinburg, Tennessee. I am hoping for safety for all concerned and that these blazes will be contained as soon as possible.
This is a photo collage from a visit to Gatlinburg, Tennessee back in 2008. It’s a picturesque tourist destination in the Great Smoky Mountains. This past week the town was hit hard by fires that burned homes, attractions, lodges and other businesses. This is a good place to chill and it will come back.
From USA Today
Wildfires lead to evacuation of Gatlinburg
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Gatlinburg Fire Department has ordered the mandatory evacuation of downtown Gatlinburg as wind conditions worsened and several fires grew increasingly unpredictable and dangerous.There were reports that Dollywood, the theme park started by country star Dolly Parton, was in the path of the flames.Some areas of Pigeon Forge also were being evacuated, according to fire spokeswoman Trish McGee.”Three county school buses are available for emergency transport and are being dispatched as needed to transport those who need to evacuate,” according to a statement from McGee.”We were just told by the Gatlinburg Fire Department that they had told everybody in Gatlinburg to get out,” said Judy Tucker, director of Sevier County’s E-911 call center, around 9 p.m. “… No one’s getting through to anyone. Phones are ringing and not being answered anywhere. It’s chaos.”
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a popular tourist destination. The fires there are something the people aren’t used to. They need rain. God be with those folks.
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