Gremlins, Anyone?

more cat pictures

Well, first of all, I will apologize to those who come and read my blog regularly that have found nothing new for the past few days. I'm sorry for not posting anything! lol.. No excuses, though, I don't have any. First of all, the news about my Mom is all good. Everything is going fine with the new pacemaker and her healing from the surgery to replace the old one. I spent the last couple of days helping my trucker friend spend money.. lol... He's getting ready for his vacation and he needed some new clothes and stuff. He's preparing to go to England for a visit and some sightseeing. So, I went along and gave advice about things to take and things not to take. Things like comfortable shoes, clothes for both cool and warm weather and stuff like that. We also met up with another friend who had a job interview on Tuesday and gave him some moral support, along with crossing our fingers for him. Hopefully he'll hear back from them with a job offer. Yes, my fingers are still crossed.. lol

The firefighters are gaining a lot of ground with the fires from the lightning storm last month. According to Cal Fire there are 25 active fires burning in the state. And not all of them are from the lighting event. I've been putting the statistics for both the state and national fires up on the California Fire News website every day. Check it out... Hopefully the weather will hold and the firefighters will be able to contain the rest of the fires soon. The thing that worries me is that this is the end of July. Traditionally, the worst months for fires in California are September and October. We still have August to get through... Yikes.

As for the crime stuff I've been watching, first we have Drew Peterson, who's going to have to face the gun charges against him. Too bad for Mr. Brodsky, who predicted on a couple message boards and on TV that the gun charges would be dismissed. I wonder if he'll be making anymore predictions about Drew being charged in the death of Kathleen Savio or the disappearance and possible homicide of Stacy Peterson?

Another situation I've been watching and reading about is the missing 2 year old child in Florida, Caylee Anthony. The "drama" the child's mother, Casey Anthony, has caused is twisted beyond belief. Lies upon lies upon yet more lies. I truly feel sorry for the investigators in this one because even the Grandmother, Cindy Anthony, has been putting lies out. For instance, take the pizza in the car scenario that the Grandmother insists on. In the 911 call, she tells the dispatcher that the car smelled like it had a dead body in it. Later on, she tells the media and the court at Casey's bail hearing that the car had a bag of pizza in it for 12 days. What happened to the "dead body smell" that she was screaming about in the 911 call? One of news stations in Orlando, WFTV Channel 9, did an experiment. They put a whole pizza in a car in the hot Florida sun. Here's what they had to say about it: "But the Eyewitness News experiment doesn't support the smelly pizza theory after temperatures in the 90s. After seven days, the moisture was gone from the pizza and it had the consistency of shoe leather. More importantly, you have to get really close to smell anything and, when you do, the smell is pizza." And that is just one of the statements by the Grandmother or the Mom have made that have been proven false. The InSession message boards have a lot of information and a lot of speculation as well about the case.

At this point, it's going to take a miracle to bring that child home alive. I've never seen a missing child case in the news with so much misinformation handed out by the family that has been so easily proven to be false. The Grandmother rants on about how "no one is looking for Caylee" on all the news programs. But, how is anyone to even know where to start looking? The date she went missing keeps changing. We have no idea where the child was last seen because the Mom lied to the investigators about where the mysterious "nanny" lived. We have no clue what the child was wearing when she was last seen. Uhm.. Wouldn't that be an important bit of information? In normal missing child cases, it's reported to the police shortly after the child goes missing. In this case, the child being missing wasn't even reported until the child had been gone for 31 days! Unbelievable. Absolutely unbelievable.

Updates ~ Fires and Other Stuff

The California Fire News blog has some good updates on the fire conditions. The good news that I'm seeing is that the state is down to a total of 27 fires now. Bit by bit, the firefighters are gaining ground, especially when you consider that a month ago there were over 2,000 active fires in the state. All we can do is hope that the weather keeps cooperating with them so they can continue containing all the blazes. The blog owner, Bob Blogger, has also been putting some of his own photos up on the entries and one of them for today is pretty impressive. The winds have apparently changed directions again and are sending smoke down in the valley again today. When I step outside, there is a distinct aroma of smoke in the air. Ugh.

Other Stuff
I spoke to my Mom last night, and she's recovering very well from the surgery to have her pacemaker replaced. She says all she is taking for the pain is an occasional aspirin. It won't be long before she's back to 100% the way she's going.

Drew Peterson made the news again yesterday. After his friends let it out about the secret taping of their conversations, Drew and his attorney, Brodsky have been hitting all the news shows for interviews. The funny part is that yesterday morning, while Drew and Brodsky were being interviewed on the Today Show, his friend Len Wawczak was letting another "cat out of the bag". For a while now, there has been a blog where a woman/girl named "Ashley" was posting screen shots of her chats with Drew. In those chats, Drew was proclaiming his "love" for Ashley among other things. For instance, if you were watching Larry King a while back and saw Drew and Brodsky on there, with Drew tugging his ear fairly often, you were seeing Drew "signalling" his "love" to Ashley. Well, Ashley has "come out". Ashley was Drew's friend Len! I am quite sure that the news wasn't pleasant for Drew to hear... lol.. Almost every message board that I visited yesterday had folks laughing like crazy at Drew and his excuses. One of these days the Grand Jury in Will County will finish and hopefully will hand down some indictments against Drew. For his murdered exwife, Kathleen Savio, and for his missing wife, Stacy Peterson.

Hey! It's Wednesday!

And I should probably apologize for not posting anything yesterday. So I'll do that and then get on to the explanation. I'm sorry for not being on my computer yesterday! Uhm.. Well, I'm not that sorry.

I spent most of the day yesterday hanging around a hospital. Last Thursday, my Mom went in for the usual checkup on her pacemaker and they found that it wasn't working properly anymore so they scheduled her for surgery to replace it yesterday. We had to report to the hospital at 8am yesterday morning, so I had to get out of here well before that in order to get her to the hospital on time. No time for the computer then.

I met my folks at their house about 7:30, and we headed over to Rideout Hospital in Marysville. Mom already had most of the check-in stuff done before we went yesterday, so all she had to do was go up to the cardiac floor and check in at the nurses station. They got her settled in her room and we stayed there for a bit, at least until they started bringing in the needles and stuff to get her hooked up to the IV and the machines. Then my Step-Dad was ready for breakfast (or escaping from the needles!), so we left Mom there and headed back over the river to Yuba City, and the Cook'n'Pot restaurant (Mmm.. Good food!). After breakfast, we went to their doctor's office to pick up a prescription for Mom and then back to the hospital. Once back at the hospital, we settled in for the long wait. The wait before they took her to surgery, the wait while she was in surgery and the wait afterwards while they monitored the new pacemaker to be sure that it was doing the job it was meant for. I wish hospitals had more comfortable seats, both in the rooms and in the waiting areas! Anyway, we finally left the hospital around 5:30 or so and stopped at another restaurant, California Red's (Mmmm.. More good food!) for dinner. Poor Mom was pretty hungry by then. All she'd had all day was a dry turkey sandwich and some carrot sticks after she came out of surgery. By the time I got home last night, the computer (and the blog) was about the furthest thing from my mind. But, I'm back on it this morning....

Fire Stuff
I got a call this morning from a friend of mine. His wife works up in Paradise and he said she told him that the smoke this morning in Paradise was thick enough to cut with a knife. With the changes in the weather over the last couple of days, the smoke is hanging in there again. Bad. I noticed the increase in smokey air last night on my way home from my folk's house. The setting sun was the dark orange-red orb hanging above the coastal range again. I could look straight into it through my windshield as I drove home and it didn't bother my eyes at all.

For fire updates, go to the California Fire News blog. "Bob Blogger" is putting the information up there now. You'll even find a post from me on that blog today! I posted the newest satellite photo of the smoke and fires in California there earlier this morning. Yep! I am officially one of the writers for the California Fire News now! I won't be putting all of the stats up here on my blog anymore. If (and when) Bob Blogger gets called out to the fire lines with his water tender again, I'll be putting the updates from Cal Fire and the National Interagency Fire Center on his blog for him.

Other News
Drew Peterson hit the headlines in the papers again this morning. Drew is under suspicion in the death of wife number 3, Kathleen Salvio and is a suspect in the disappearance of wife number 4, Stacy Peterson. Apparently the investigators have him on tape now. They "recruited" two of his friends a while back. They wore "wires" when they went to "visit" Drew for several months. The friends are also the ones that were in the news recently in articles about that folding gun that Ric Mims mentioned a long while back. The articles in the Chicago Tribune and the Chicago Sun Times are pretty interesting. It's also pretty interesting to see how Joel Brodsky, Drew's so-called attorney and Drew are trying to spin this new story. According to Mr. Brodsky, the whole taping thing never happened and according to both Drew and Brodsky, the only reason this is hitting the news is because those friends, Paula Stark and Len Wawczak are trying to "profit" from Drew's problems. Uhm. Yeah, sure Drew... (Insert rolling eyes icon here. LOL)

To end on a "positive" note, I'm going to put in a plug for the 3rd annual Kacie's Ride For Hope. The ride will be on September 13th and will start in Placerville. They've got a map posted on the website now that shows the route the ride will be going on. If you are at all interested in spending a day in the mountains on a bike (Meaning motorcycle type bike!) check this one out. All proceeds from the ride goes to a really good cause. To quote from the website: "All proceeds generated from ticket sales and raffle prizes, as well as cash donations will be donated for Emergency Services to "The Center for Violence-Free Relationships", formerly "The El Dorado Women's Center"." The website also has a lot of photos posted from last year's ride...

And, for the end of my post for this morning, here's another LOLCat picture... hehe...


more cat pictures

Monday Morning Fire Updates

This may be one of the last updates I do on the fires for a while. The fellow who blogs at California Fire News has come down off the mountain with his water tender. Until they call him back out again, that is. Anyway, he made some updates to his blog with the same sort of information that I've been posting and I know that more people look to his blog than mine. I doubt if all the information needs to be duplicated, so I will defer to the California Fire News blog once it's being updated regularly again. Yesterday, he posted an article from the Redding newspaper that gives an idea of what it takes to feed all those firefighters out there. It's well worth the read.

Anyway, that said, here's the statistics from Cal Fire for this morning. They're looking pretty good.

Statewide Fire Overview - Lightning Series

Current Situation: Over two thousand fires have been contained through the endless firefighting efforts of state, local and federal personnel and equipment from California, the rest of the nation and several foreign countries. Isolated thunderstorms are expected this afternoon over the northern and eastern mountains. Isolated showers and thunderstorms expected over the mountains and deserts of Southern California east of the Cajon Pass today. Firefighting priorities are the protection of life, property and natural resources.
Download the latest fact sheet. (Updated 7/21 at 9 a.m.)
Download the latest statewide map.

Statewide Fire Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 2,096
• Total Fires Contained: 2,063
• Total Active Fires: 33
• Total Acres Burned: 953,907

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred from state, local and federal firefighting agencies beginning June 20, 2008.

CAL FIRE Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 1,007
• Fires Contained: 1,004
• Active Fires: 3
• Acres Burned: 289,994

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred ONLY in CAL FIRE jurisdiction since June 20, 2008.

Statewide Resources Committed

• Personnel Committed: 15,573
• Fire Engines: 845
• Hand Crews: 404
• Dozers: 133
• Water Tenders: 247
• Helicopters: 90

Highway closures: Travel on state highways, county and local roads remains restricted throughout California due to wildfire and flood activities. All major roads are now open except for periodic closures on State Highway 299. Travelers are advised to seek current information on secondary road closures from local law enforcement. Click here for detailed road closures.

Evacuations: Areas of Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lake and Mendocino counties are under evacuation orders at this time. Precautionary evacuation orders currently exist in areas in Monterey and Trinity counties. Residents are advised to monitor their local fire situation, check with local law enforcement agencies for information, and be prepared to evacuate when necessary. Click here for detailed evacuation information.

Structures:
Threatened : 4,958 residences, 139 commercial, 2,166 outbuildings.
Destroyed : 123 residences, 1 commercial, 138 outbuildings.

CAL FIRE Summary of Fires by County

Butte: The Butte Lightning Complex has burned 55,440 acres and is 90% contained. The Butte Fire Information Number is (530) 538-7826. Click Here for more information.

Shasta & Trinity: The Shasta and Trinity Lightning has burned 86,500 acres and is 95% contained. The Shasta-Trinity Unit Information Number is (530) 225-2510. Click Here for more information.

Mendocino: The Mendocino Lightning Complex burned 53,300 acres and is now 100% contained. The Mendocino Fire Information Number is (707)-467-6426. Click Here for more information.

Humboldt: The Humboldt Complex burned 1,325 acres and is now 100% contained.

Lassen, Modoc: The Corral Fire burned 12,434 acres and is now 100% contained. Click Here for more information.

Mariposa: The Oliver Fire burned 2,789 acres and now 100% contained.Click Here for more information.

Lake: The Walker Fire burned 14,500 acres and is now 100% contained. Click Here for more information.

Napa & Solano: The Wild Fire burned 40,000 acres and is now 100% contained. Click Here for more information.

Santa Clara: The Whitehurst and Hummingbird Fires burned a combined 994 acres and are both now 100% contained. Click Here for more information.

Its good to see the numbers for the total fires going down, and to see more and more of the fire complexes being contained, isn't it?

Cal Fire & National Fire Updates for 9am, 7/20

The news is looking good from the firelines. The total number of fires around the state has decreased again. It's down to 34 active fires in California. The weather is good here today, but from what they're saying, we could have thunderstorms "wandering" around sometime tomorrow. Hopefully if thunderstorms do happen, they will be wet ones. And I hope that they won't be the gully washers that cause flash floods or mud slides in the burned areas.

Here are the statistics from Cal Fire:

Statewide Fire Overview - Lightning Series

Current Situation: Over two thousand fires have been contained through the endless firefighting efforts of state, local and federal personnel and equipment from California, the rest of the nation and several foreign countries. An upper level low pressure will be gradually deepening offshore on Sunday, before moving onshore sometime Monday. By Monday it may be unstable enough to generate isolated localized thunderstorms in the North. Firefighting priorities are the protection of life, property and natural resources.
Download the latest fact sheet. (Updated 7/20 at 9 a.m.)
Download the latest statewide map.

Statewide Fire Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 2,096
• Total Fires Contained: 2,062
• Total Active Fires: 34
• Total Acres Burned: 940,782

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred from state, local and federal firefighting agencies beginning June 20, 2008.

CAL FIRE Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 1,007
• Fires Contained: 1,004
• Active Fires: 3
• Acres Burned: 289,994

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred ONLY in CAL FIRE jurisdiction since June 20, 2008.

Statewide Resources Committed

• Personnel Committed: 16,871
• Fire Engines: 909
• Hand Crews: 427
• Dozers: 154
• Water Tenders: 287
• Helicopters: 90

Highway closures: Travel on state highways, county and local roads remains restricted throughout California due to wildfire and flood activities. All major roads are now open except for periodic closures on State Highway 299. Travelers are advised to seek current information on secondary road closures from local law enforcement. Click here for detailed road closures.

Evacuations: Areas of Humboldt, Shasta, Lake and Mendocino counties are under evacuation orders at this time. Precautionary evacuation orders currently exist in areas in Monterey and Trinity counties. Residents are advised to monitor their local fire situation, check with local law enforcement agencies for information, and be prepared to evacuate when necessary. Click here for detailed evacuation information.

Structures:
Threatened : 5,111 residences, 139 commercial, 2,225 outbuildings.
Destroyed : 123 residences, 1 commercial, 140 outbuildings.

The National Interagency Fire Center has also updated their page with the newest information too. Here's what they have:

July 20, 2008

The large fires in northern California burned actively yesterday, where several communities are still under evacuation orders. Despite these conditions, firefighters are working hard and making progress toward containment goals. Yesterday, 114 new fires were reported across the country, but thanks to the initial attack efforts of firefighters, all of them remained small. Fire managers have prepositioned crews, engines, and aircraft in anticipation of the lightning storms that could hit the western states Monday and Tuesday.

Australia, New Zealand, and Canada are providing 59 fire specialists and managers to assist with fire suppression operations in California. Canada is also providing two crews to California.

Six MAFFS C-130 air tankers are supporting the State of California. All aircraft are based at McClellan Airport in Sacramento, California. The Mission Commander is LTC Mike Barkdull, 153rd Airlift Wing, Cheyenne, Wyoming. One aircraft is provided by the 145th Airlift Wing, Charlotte, North Carolina, three from the 302nd Airlift Wing, Colorado Springs, Colorado and two from the 153rd Airlift Wing, Cheyenne, Wyoming.

The following table lists the number of personnel assigned to the wildland fires in California. This information was provided by the U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region and CalFire.

July 20, 2008
Resource	Federal	State	Other	Total
Total Personnel	6,245	4,512	6,114	16,871
Helicopters	40	1	49	90
Hand Crews	175	123	128	426
Engines	246	289	374	909
Dozers	6	10	138	154
Water Tenders	8	2	277	287
NOTE: Total personnel includes all personnel assigned to California. Individuals assigned to resources such as engines, dozers, overhead, etc. are included in the "total personnel" category. The "other" category includes contractors, military, and local government.

Weather Discussion: Most of the West will be hot and dry today. Widely scattered mixed wet and dry thunderstorms are expected over portions of the Great Basin, Wyoming, and Montana. Wet thunderstorms are forecast for the southern Sierra and the southern California mountains and deserts.

Source: National Interagency Coordination Center

Current Wildland Fires:

California

American River Complex (Tahoe National Forest): 20,541 acres at 75 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 11 miles northeast of Foresthill. Residences are threatened and evacuations are in effect.
Information: Call (530) 367-6223 or visit the web site.

Basin Complex (Los Padres National Forest): 133,709 acres at 70 percent contained. This complex is five miles southeast of Big Sur. Emergency Passes issued by the Monterey County Sheriffs Department are required for residents and their employees to enter the voluntary evacuation areas along the Carmel Valley Road and Cachagua Road. The passes are available at checkpoints 24 hours a day.
Information: Call (805) 961-5770 or visit the web site.

Bear Wallow Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 2,565 acres at zero percent contained. This complex of two fires is 13 miles southeast of Happy Camp. Visibility and terrain are hampering firefighter containment efforts. Approximately 16 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) has been closed. The trail closure extends from Etna Summit to the intersection of the PCT with the Canyon Creek Trail (#5532).
Information: Call (707) 457-3879 or visit the web site.

Blue 2 (Six Rivers National Forest): 4,465 acres at 22 percent contained. This fire is 12 miles east of Klamath. Cultural resources are threatened.
Information: Call (707) 457-3879 or visit the web site.

BTU Lightning Complex (Butte Unit, Cal Fire): 55,240 acres at 90 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 27 miles north of Yuba City. Fire activity was minimal yesterday.
Information: Call (530) 538-7826 or visit the web site.

Canyon Complex (Plumas National Forest): 35,105 acres at 71 percent contained. This complex of six fires is 16 miles northeast of Paradise. Communities and archeological sites are threatened.
Information: Call (530) 283-7882 or visit the web site.

Cub Complex (Lassen National Forest): 19,718 acres at 95 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 16 miles southwest of Chester. Traffic flow is restricted on Highway 32.
Information: Call (530) 258-3932 or visit the web site.

Gap (Los Padres National Forest): 9,443 acres at 97 percent contained. This fire is located six miles northwest of Santa Barbara. Structures are threatened.
Information: Call (805) 961-5770 or visit the web site.

Hell's Half Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 11,414 acres at 60 percent contained. This complex of two fires is eight miles southwest of Burnt Ranch. Communities are threatened. Mandatory evacuation of the Dry Lake area is in effect. Evacuations continue for 56 residences south of the fire.
Information: Call (530) 629-2184 or visit the web site.

Iron and Alps Complex (Shasta-Trinity National Forest): 55,545 acres at 49 percent contained. This complex of seven fires is one mile north of Junction City. Mandatory evacuations are still in effect for Corral Bottom and the following ares of Junction City: Red Hill, Cooper's Bar, Dutch Creek, Evan's Bar, and Soldier Creek.
Information: Call (530) 623-6415 or visit the web site.

Lime Complex (Shasta-Trinity National Forest): 89,823 acres at 67 percent contained. This complex of 11 fires is 14 miles west of Hayfork. Residences, ranches, camps, and private lands around Hyampom, Indian Valley, Hayfork Bally Lookout, Wildwood, Buck Camp, Saddle Camp; and Tomhead Lookout, South Mountain Road area, and communications towers are threatened. Cultural sites south of the Yellow fire, in the Yolla Bolly Wilderness are also threatened.
Information: Call (530) 226-2500 ext. 2 or visit the web site.

SHU Lightning Complex (Shasta-Trinity Unit, Cal Fire): 84,988 acres at 75 percent contained. This complex of two fires is in Shasta and Trinity counties. Residences are threatened and road closures are in effect.
Information: Call (530) 225-2510 or visit the web site.

Siskiyou Complex (Klamath National Forest): 48,000 acres at 20 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 18 miles southwest of Happy Camp. Steep, inaccessible terrain and rolling material continues to hamper containment efforts. Smoke trapped by inversions has hampered air operations. Significant Karuk and Yurok Tribal cultural and religious sites continue to be at risk. Structure protection is in effect along Highway 96, in cooperation with the Ukonom Complex.
Information: Call (530) 493-1518 or visit the web site.

Soda Complex (Mendocino National Forest): 8,581 acres at 79 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 15 miles northwest of Upper Lake. Active fire behavior was reported. Seven residences were evacuated between Deadmans Flat and Sunset Gap.
Information: Call (707) 275-2017 or visit the web site.

Ukonom Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 25,155 acres at 22 percent contained. This complex is 10 miles east of Orleans. Structures are threatened and road closures are in effect.
Information: Call (530) 627-3291 or visit the web site.

Colorado

Grand Complex (Grand Mesa National Forest): 1,632 acres at an unknown percent contained. This complex of two fires is 20 miles southeast of Grand Junction. It includes the Coal Creek fire. Fire activity was minimal.

Louisiana

Range (Kisatchie National Forest): 482 acres at 90 percent contained. This fire is 11 miles southwest of Alexandria. No new information was provided.

Nevada

NEW Callaghan (Battle Mountain Field Office, Bureau of Land Management): 630 acres at zero percent contained. This fire is 14 miles northeast of Austin. Extreme fire behavior was reported. Structures are threatened.

North Carolina

Evans Road (North Carolina Division of Forest Resources): 41,553 acres at 75 percent contained. This fire is located seven miles south of Creswell. Fire activity was minimal. Residences are threatened.
Information: Call 919-218-3179.

Texas

NEW Well 35 (Texas Forest Service): 1,200 acres at zero percent contained. This fire started on private land 26 miles west of Mineral Wells. Residences are threatened.

NEW Miller (Texas Forest Service): 482 acres at 90 percent contained. This fire started on private land two miles northeast of Memphis. Residences are threatened.

Virginia

South One (Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Reserve): 4,664 acres at 95 percent contained. This fire is located 12 miles southeast of Suffolk. No new information was provided.

Washington

Cold Spring (Gifford Pinchot National Forest): 7,956 acres at 60 percent contained. This fire is 40 miles northwest of Goldendale. Minimal fire behavior was reported. Cultural sites are threatened.

Spokane Valley (Washington Department of Natural Resources): 1,006 acres at 95 percent contained. This fire is four miles west of Spokane Valley. Fire activity was minimal. Residences are threatened.
Information: Call (123) 456-7890 or visit the web site.

I think I'll close with a funny... lol, Not a cat this time, but it does mention the feline types...

see more dog pictures

New Update from Cal Fire

The Cal Fire website has put up the update for this morning... I figured I'd add it in to the other post, but it's long enough as it is, I think.. lol.. So here's a new post with this morning's numbers:

Statewide Fire Overview - Lightning Series

Current Situation: Over two thousand fires have been contained through the endless firefighting efforts of state, local and federal personnel and equipment from California, the rest of the nation and several foreign countries. A weak low pressure system is entering northern California bringing cooler temperatures with a potential for widely scattered showers in the mountains. Southern California may see a potential of thunderstorms on Monday as monsoonal moisture attempts to surge back into the region. Firefighting priorities are the protection of life, property and natural resources .
Download the latest fact sheet. (Updated 7/19 at 9 a.m.)
Download the latest statewide map.

Statewide Fire Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 2,093
• Total Fires Contained: 2,055
• Total Active Fires: 38
• Total Acres Burned: 926,427

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred from state, local and federal firefighting agencies beginning June 20, 2008.

CAL FIRE Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 1,007
• Fires Contained: 1,004
• Active Fires: 3
• Acres Burned: 289,994

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred ONLY in CAL FIRE jurisdiction since June 20, 2008.

Statewide Resources Committed

• Personnel Committed: 17,643
• Fire Engines: 1,025
• Hand Crews: 428
• Dozers: 167
• Water Tenders: 306
• Helicopters: 102

Highway closures: Travel on state highways, county and local roads remains restricted throughout California due to wildfire and flood activities. All major roads are now open with potential delays on State Highways 32, 70 and 299. Travelers are advised to seek current information on secondary road closures from local law enforcement. Click here for detailed road closures.

Evacuations: Areas of Humboldt, Shasta and Trinity counties are under evacuation orders at this time. Precautionary evacuation orders currently exist in areas in Monterey and Trinity counties. Residents are advised to monitor their local fire situation, check with local law enforcement agencies for information, and be prepared to evacuate when necessary. Click here for detailed evacuation information.

Structures:
Threatened : 5,178 residences, 96 commercial, 1,975 outbuildings.
Destroyed : 123 residences, 1 commercial, 140 outbuildings.

CAL FIRE Summary of Fires by County

Butte: The Butte Lightning Complex has burned 55,240 acres and is 85% contained. The Butte Fire Information Number is (530) 538-7826.

Shasta & Trinity: The Shasta and Trinity Lightning has burned 84,988 acres and is 65% contained. The Shasta-Trinity Unit Information Number is (530) 225-2510.

Mendocino: The Mendocino Lightning Complex burned 53,300 acres and is now 100% contained. The Mendocino Fire Information Number is (707)-467-6426.

Humboldt: The Humboldt Complex burned 1,325 acres and is now 100% contained.

Lassen, Modoc: The Corral Fire burned 12,434 acres and is now 100% contained.

Mariposa: The Oliver Fire burned 2,789 acres and now 100% contained.

Lake: The Walker Fire burned 14,500 acres and is now 100% contained.

Napa & Solano: The Wild Fire burned 40,000 acres and is now 100% contained.

Santa Clara: The Whitehurst and Hummingbird Fires burned a combined 994 acres and are both now 100% contained.

Tehama & Glenn: The Tehama-Glenn Lightning Complex burned 22,907 acres and is now 100% contained.

Major Federal and Local Incidents
For information on major federal incidents click here.

Maps and Links
For incident maps, resources available to fire victims or to volunteer, visit our Maps and Links page.

Fire Updates are Looking Good!

The weather is fair this morning, cool but no breeze. The sky looks a little hazy this morning, but it's sort of blue when I look straight up. This morning's fire update isn't on the Cal Fire website yet (They seem to be getting slower and slower about updating lately.. lol), but I can post the update from 9pm last night.

Statewide Fire Overview - Lightning Series

Current Situation: Over two thousand fires have been contained through the endless firefighting efforts of state, local and federal personnel and equipment from California, the rest of the nation and several foreign countries. A weak low pressure system will enter northern California beginning Saturday with only widely scattered showers predicted in the mountains. Southern California may see a potential of thunderstorms on Monday as monsoonal moisture attempts to surge back into the region. Firefighting priorities are the protection of life, property and natural resources.
Download the latest fact sheet. (Updated 7/18 at 9 p.m.)
Download the latest statewide map.

Statewide Fire Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 2,093
• Total Fires Contained: 2,055
• Total Active Fires: 38
• Total Acres Burned: 920,075

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred from state, local and federal firefighting agencies beginning June 20, 2008.

CAL FIRE Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 1,007
• Fires Contained: 1,000
• Active Fires: 7
• Acres Burned: 265,011

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred ONLY in CAL FIRE jurisdiction since June 20, 2008.

Statewide Resources Committed

• Personnel Committed: 17,381
• Fire Engines: 1,029
• Hand Crews: 424
• Dozers: 170
• Water Tenders: 304
• Helicopters: 100

Highway closures: Travel on state highways, county and local roads remains restricted throughout California due to wildfire and flood activities. All major roads are now open with potential delays on State Highways 32, 70 and 299. Travelers are advised to seek current information on secondary road closures from local law enforcement. Click here for detailed road closures.

Evacuations: Areas of Humboldt, Shasta and Trinity counties are under evacuation orders at this time. Precautionary evacuation orders currently exist in areas in Kern (flood hazard), Monterey and Trinity counties. Residents are advised to monitor their local fire situation, check with local law enforcement agencies for information, and be prepared to evacuate when necessary.. Click here for detailed evacuation information.

Structures:
Threatened : 5,183 residences, 97 commercial, 1,979 outbuildings.
Destroyed : 102 residences, 1 commercial, 139 outbuildings.

And here are the statistics from the National Interagency Fire Center:

July 19, 2008

Firefighters continue to make good progress on the large fires in California, a few are expected to be contained over the weekend. Yesterday, 163 new fires were reported, but thanks to the initial attack efforts of firefighters, all of them remained small. Fire managers have prepositioned crews, engines, and aircraft in anticipation of the lightning storms that could hit the western states this weekend.

Australia, New Zealand, and Canada are providing 59 fire specialists and managers to assist with fire suppression operations in California. Canada is also providing two crews to California.

Six MAFFS C-130 air tankers are supporting the State of California. All aircraft are based at McClellan Airport in Sacramento, California. The Mission Commander is LTC Mike Barkdull, 153rd Airlift Wing, Cheyenne, Wyoming. One aircraft is provided by the 145th Airlift Wing, Charlotte, North Carolina, three from the 302nd Airlift Wing,
Colorado Springs, Colorado and two from the 153rd Airlift Wing, Cheyenne, Wyoming.

The following table lists the number of personnel assigned to the wildland fires in California. This information was provided by the U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region and CalFire.

July 19, 2008
Resource	Federal	State	Other	Total
Total Personnel	6,205	4,976	6,462	17,463
Helicopters	57	1	44	102
Hand Crews	175	124	129	428
Engines	239	374	412	1,025
Dozers	7	16	144	167
Water Tenders	8	7	291	306
Overhead	1,423	892	1,035	3,350
NOTE: Total personnel includes all personnel assigned to California. Individuals assigned to resources such as engines, dozers, overhead, etc. are included in the "total personnel" category. The "other" category includes contractors, military, and local government.

Weather Discussion: Chance of a few thunderstorms over northern California, southern Oregon and the Great Basin today. Otherwise, hot and dry over much of the West. Gusty winds are expected in Montana, Wyoming and parts of the Great Basin.

Source: National Interagency Coordination Center

Below, I'm adding the list of fires from the National Interagency Fire Center for all the active fires, not just the ones in California.

California

American River Complex (Tahoe National Forest): 19,992 acres at 65 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 11 miles northeast of Foresthill. Residences are threatened and road closures are in effect. Two hundred members of the California National Guard will begin a three-day training exercise today in fire suppression techniques on the fire's southern flank.
Information: Call (530) 367-6223 or visit the web site.

Basin Complex (Los Padres National Forest): 129,840 acres at 70 percent contained. This complex is five miles southeast of Big Sur. Mandatory evacuation for cabins in the Santa Lucia Tract remains in effect.
Information: Call (805) 961-5770 or visit the web site.

Bear Wallow Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 2,320 acres at zero percent contained. This complex of two fires is 13 miles southeast of Happy Camp. Minimal fire behavior was reported.
Information: Call (707) 457-3879 or visit the web site.

Blue 2 (Six Rivers National Forest): 4,465 acres at 22 percent contained. This fire is 12 miles east of Klamath. Cultural resources are threatened.
Information: Call (707) 457-3879 or visit the web site.

BTU Lightning Complex (Butte Unit, Cal Fire): 55,240 acres at 85 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 27 miles north of Yuba City. Fire activity increased yesterday.
Information: Call (530) 538-7826 or visit the web site.

Canyon Complex (Plumas National Forest): 34,139 acres at 64 percent contained. This complex of six fires is 16 miles northeast of Paradise. Communities and archeological sites are threatened.
Information: Call (530) 283-7882 or visit the web site.

Cub Complex (Lassen National Forest): 19,718 acres at 90 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 16 miles southwest of Chester. Traffic flow is restricted on Highway 32.
Information: Call (530) 258-3932 or visit the web site.

Gap (Los Padres National Forest): 9,443 acres at 97 percent contained. This fire is located six miles northwest of Santa Barbara. Structures are threatened.
Information: Call (805) 961-5770 or visit the web site.

Hell's Half Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 10,917 acres at 50 percent contained. This complex of two fires is eight miles southwest of Burnt Ranch. Communities are threatened. Evacuation orders are in effect for the Big Slide and Hyampom West areas.
Information: Call (530) 629-2184 or visit the web site.

Iron and Alps Complex (Shasta-Trinity National Forest): 52,161 acres at 45 percent contained. This complex of seven fires is one mile north of Junction City. Mandatory evacuations are in effect for Corral Bottom, Red Hill,Cooper's Bar, Dutch Creek, Evan's Bar, and Soldier Creek.
Information: Call (530) 623-6415 or visit the web site.

Lime Complex (Shasta-Trinity National Forest): 86,964 acres at 65 percent contained. This complex of 11 fires is 14 miles west of Hayfork. Communities, ranches, and youth camps are threatened.
Information: Call (530) 226-2500 ext. 2 or visit the web site.

Piute (Sequoia National Forest): 37,026 acres at 97 percent contained. This fire is 17 miles northeast of Caliente. This will be the last report unless significant activity occurs.
Information: Call (760) 549-0213 or the web site.

SHU Lightning Complex (Shasta-Trinity Unit, Cal Fire): 84,988 acres at 65 percent contained. This complex of two fires is in Shasta and Trinity counties. Residences are threatened and road closures are in effect.
Information: Call (530) 225-2510 or visit the web site.

Siskiyou Complex (Klamath National Forest): 45,100 acres at 20 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 18 miles southwest of Happy Camp. Residences and cultural sites are threatened. Forest road, campground and trail closures in effect.
Information: Call (530) 493-1518 or visit the web site.

Soda Complex (Mendocino National Forest): 8,360 acres at 79 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 15 miles northwest of Upper Lake. Active fire behavior was reported. Residences are threatened.
Information: Call (707) 275-2017 or visit the web site.

Ukonom Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 24,593 acres at 22 percent contained. This complex is 10 miles east of Orleans. Structures are threatened and road closures are in effect.
Information: Call (530) 627-3291 or visit the web site.

Colorado

Grand Complex (Grand Mesa National Forest): 1,632 acres at an unknown percent contained. This complex of two fires is 20 miles southeast of Grand Junction. It includes the Coal Creek fire. Fire activity was minimal.

Louisiana

Range (Kisatchie National Forest): 482 acres at 90 percent contained. This fire is 11 miles southwest of Alexandria. Fire behavior was minimal.

North Carolina

Evans Road (North Carolina Division of Forest Resources): 41,553 acres at 75 percent contained. This fire is located seven miles south of Creswell. Fire activity was minimal. Residences are threatened.
Information: Call 919-218-3179.

Virginia

South One (Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Reserve): 4,664 acres at 95 percent contained. This fire is located 12 miles southeast of Suffolk. Minimal fire activity was reported.

Washington

Badger Mountain (Washington Department of Natural Resources): 15,023 acres at 98 percent contained. The fire is eight miles north of East Wenatchee. This will be the last report unless significant activity occurs.
Information: Call (509) 888-1364 or visit the web site.

Cold Spring (Gifford Pinchot National Forest): 7,956 acres at 50 percent contained. This fire is 40 miles northwest of Goldendale. Minimal fire behavior was reported. Cultural sites are threatened.

Spokane Valley (Washington Department of Natural Resources): 1,006 acres at 90 percent contained. This fire is four miles west of Spokane Valley. Fire activity was minimal. Residences are threatened.
Information: Call (123) 456-7890 or visit the web site.

The Modis Rapid Response System website hasn't had any satellite photos of California in a few days now, but some of the other ones they've been posting in the gallery are pretty interesting. A while back, I posted one of fires in Russia, so I'm posting another one from Russia today. It looks like the same area that I posted before. Just lots more smoke and fires, it looks like.
I surfed through the images on the "Real Time" link on the Modis page and found one of the images that shows California. I downloaded it and cropped the image to show just the part I wanted, but it does show the fires and the smoke as of yesterday.

Simon's Cat ~ TV Dinner

I'll be posting updates on the fires in the morning, but for now, I'm posting a cute animated movie... I love the Simon's Cat videos on YouTube.. lol..



Anyway, the number of active fires all over the state have gone down to 38 according to the Cal Fire website! Fantastic news, isn't it? I'll grab all the stats in the morning and get them posted. (I sure hope no one was here specifically looking for fire updates today! Sorry about that!)

The InSessions message board came back up sometime this afternoon (I'm not quite sure what time it happened.. lol) and there has been a bit of new news posted there about a couple of the cases I've been watching, so tomorrow I'll see about adding that news into the blog as well.

Slow Updates

I had been putting off putting the update up for the fires until the Cal Fire site got this morning's stats up, but for some reason, they're still not there. The only information on the site is from 9PM last night (as of 1:20pm today.) I'll add those, but the National Interagency Fire Center has some updated stats... So.. Both will be on here.. Sort of.. lol..

Here's the Cal Fire stats from last night:

Statewide Fire Overview - Lightning Series

Current Situation: Over two thousand fires have been contained due to the endless firefighting efforts of state, local and federal personnel and equipment from California, as well as from the rest of the nation and several foreign countries. Generally favorable weather conditions have resulted in continuing good progress on the fire lines. The southern Sierra Nevada again experienced thundershower activity, with numerous lightning strikes, this afternoon. The priority of firefighting is for the protection of life, property and natural resources.
Download the latest fact sheet. (Updated 7/16 at 9 p.m.)
Download the latest statewide map.

Statewide Fire Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 2,093
• Total Fires Contained: 2,050
• Total Active Fires: 43
• Total Acres Burned: 887,315

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred from state, local and federal firefighting agencies beginning June 20, 2008.

CAL FIRE Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 1,005
• Fires Contained: 994
• Active Fires: 11
• Acres Burned: 262,133

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred ONLY in CAL FIRE jurisdiction since June 20, 2008.
The number of contained and active fires will not equal the total due to some fires merging together.

Statewide Resources Committed

• Personnel Committed: 18,571
• Fire Engines: 1,104
• Hand Crews: 447
• Dozers: 196
• Water Tenders: 326
• Helicopters: 110

Highway closures: Travel on state highways, county and local roads remains restricted throughout California due to wildfire and flood activities. All major roads are now open with delays on State Highways 32 and 70 . Travelers are advised to seek current information on secondary road closures from local law enforcement. Click here for detailed road closures.

Evacuations:Areas of Monterey, Shasta and Trinity counties are under evacuation orders at this time. Precautionary evacuation orders currently exist in areas in Butte, Kern (flash flooding) and Trinity counties. Residents are advised to monitor their local fire situation, check with local law enforcement agencies for information, and be prepared to evacuate when necessary. Click here for detailed evacuation information.

Structures:
Threatened : 5,360 residences, 97 commercial, 1,970 outbuildings.
Destroyed : 101 residences, 1 commercial, 138 outbuildings.

Only 43 active fires statewide as of last night. It's good to see the numbers decreasing so steadily. Here's the information from the National Interagency Fire Center:

July 17, 2008

Firefighters continue to make progress on the large fires in California, where 18 large fires or complexes are still burning. Three large fires were contained yesterday, one each in Idaho Texas, and Washington. Fire managers are preparing for dry lightning storms expected to hit parts of the northern California and southern Oregon by Saturday.

Eight MAFFS C-130 airtankers are supporting California. The aircraft are based at McClellan Airport in Sacramento, California. The Mission Commander is LTC Roger Williams, 145th Air Wing Air National Guard, North Carolina. Aircraft are provided by the 145th Airlift Wing, Charlotte North Carolina, the 302nd Airlift Wing, Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the 153rd Airlift Wing from Cheyenne, Wyoming.

The following table lists the number of personnel assigned to the wildland fires in California. This information was provided by the U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region and CalFire.

July 17, 2008
Resource	Federal	State	Other	Total
Total Personnel	6,139	5,510	6,914	18,563
Helicopters	52	2	53	207
Hand Crews	171	133	143	447
Engines	229	276	578	1,083
Dozers	10	27	159	196
Water Tenders	7	18	300	325
Overhead	1,519	953	1,063	3,535
NOTE: Total personnel includes all personnel assigned to California. Individuals assigned to resources such as engines, dozers, overhead, etc. are included in the "total personnel" category. The "other" category includes contractors, military, and local government.

Weather Discussion: Mixed wet and dry thunderstorms will continue in central Idaho and western Montana, with wet thunderstorms east of the Continental Divide and through the Four-Corner states. Southern California may still see thunderstorms in eastern sections of the area through Friday.

Source: National Interagency Coordination Center

American River Complex (Tahoe National Forest): 19,322 acres at 55 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 11 miles northeast of Foresthill. Residences are threatened and evacuations are in place.
Information: Call (530) 367-6223 or visit the web site.

Basin Complex (Los Padres National Forest): 122,980 acres at 61 percent contained. This complex is five miles southeast of Big Sur. Residences are threatened and evacuations are in place.
Information: Call (805) 961-5770 or visit the web site.

Bear Wallow Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 2,037 acres at zero percent contained. This complex of two fires is 13 miles southeast of Happy Camp. Moderate fire behavior was reported.
Information: Call (707) 457-3879 or visit the web site.

Blue 2 (Six Rivers National Forest): 3,950 acres at 16 percent contained. This fire is 12 miles east of Klamath. Cultural resources are threatened.
Information: Call (707) 457-3879 or visit the web site.

BTU Lightning Complex (Butte Unit, Cal Fire): 54,300 acres at 80 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 27 miles north of Yuba City. Fire activity was minimal yesterday.
Information: Call (530) 538-7826 or visit the web site.

Canyon Complex (Plumas National Forest): 32,352 acres at 66 percent contained. This complex of six fires is 16 miles northeast of Paradise. Communities and archeological sites are threatened. Area closures are in effect.
Information: Call (530) 283-7882 or visit the web site.

Cub Complex (Lassen National Forest): 19,000 acres at 78 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 16 miles southwest of Chester. A precautionary threat evacuation notice for Butte Meadows and Jonesville is still in effect. Highway 32 is closed.
Information: Call (530) 258-3932 or visit the web site.

Gap (Los Padres National Forest): 9,443 acres at 90 percent contained. This fire is located six miles northwest of Santa Barbara. Structures are threatened.
Information: Call (805) 961-5770 or visit the web site.

Hell's Half Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 10,192 acres at 35 percent contained. This complex of two fires is eight miles southwest of Burnt Ranch. Communities are threatened. Evacuation orders are in effect for the Big Slide and Hyampom West areas.
Information: Call (530) 629-2184 or visit the web site.

Iron and Alps Complex (Shasta-Trinity National Forest): 47,066 acres at 46 percent contained. This complex of seven fires is one mile north of Junction City. Advisory evacuations are in effect for several communities.
Information: Call (530) 623-6415 or visit the web site.

Lime Complex (Shasta-Trinity National Forest): 82,726 acres at 62 percent contained. This complex of 11 fires is 14 miles west of Hayfork. Communities, ranches, and youth camps are threatened.
Information: Call (530) 226-2500 ext. 2 or visit the web site.

MEU Lightning Complex (Mendocino Unit, Cal Fire): 53,300 acres at 95 percent contained. This complex of three fires is in Mendocino county. Minimal fire activity was reported.
Information: Call 707-467-6426 or visit the web site.

Piute (Sequoia National Forest): 37,026 acres at 95 percent contained. This fire is 17 miles northeast of Caliente. Flash flood evacuations and area closures in effect. Fire activity was minimal.
Information: Call (760) 549-0213 or the web site .

SHU Lightning Complex (Shasta-Trinity Unit, Cal Fire): 82,536 acres at 60 percent contained. This complex of two fires is in Shasta and Trinity counties. Several evacuations orders are in place. Visit the web site for the most current information.
Information: Call (530) 225-2510 or visit the web site.

Siskiyou Complex (Klamath National Forest): 39,750 acres at 18 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 18 miles southwest of Happy Camp. Residences and cultural sites are threatened. Area and road closures are in effect.
Information: Call (530) 493-1518 or visit the web site.

Soda Complex (Mendocino National Forest): 8,317 acres at 69 percent contained. This complex of two fires is 15 miles northwest of Upper Lake. Crews made excellent progress on line construction. Residences are threatened.
Information: Call (707) 275-2017 or visit the web site.

Ukonom Complex (Six Rivers National Forest): 22,926 acres at 22 percent contained. This complex is 10 miles east of Orleans. Structures are threatened and road closures are in effect.
Information: Call (530) 627-3291 or visit the web site.

What is really good to see is the list of fires that have been contained.

Humboldt: The Humboldt Complex burned 1,325 acres and is now 100% contained.

Lassen, Modoc: The Corral Fire burned 12,434 acres and is now 100% contained.

Mariposa: The Oliver Fire burned 2,789 acres and now 100% contained.

Lake: The Walker Fire burned 14,500 acres and is now 100% contained.

Napa & Solano: The Wild Fire burned 40,000 acres and is now 100% contained.

Santa Clara: The Whitehurst and Hummingbird Fires burned a combined 994 acres and are both now 100% contained.

Tehama & Glenn: The Tehama-Glenn Lightning Complex burned 22,907 acres and is now 100% contained.

I have a hunch that the delay with Cal Fire getting this morning's updates onto their website has something to do with the fact that President Bush is supposed to be visiting the state and viewing the fires and fire damage. I've seen a number of news articles about his visit and from what I gather, he and the governor will be in the Redding area today. I'll try to update the blog if and when the Cal Fire site updates the statistics. Meanwhile, I need to go close up windows and turn on my air conditioners because it's getting hot in this house... lol

Fewer Fires Means Blue Sky!

We've had blue sky above for the last couple of days and it's marvelous. Today the weather is much cooler than it had been as well, and that is marvelous too. The number of fires is going down too, which is fantastic! We no longer have over 20,000 people out on the fire lines! Some of those poor firefighters can get some rest! Here are this mornings numbers, and be sure to look at the "Current Situation and look at the countries who've sent firefighters to help:

Statewide Fire Overview - Lightning Series

Current Situation: Over two thousand fires have been contained due to the endless efforts of firefighters from California, as well as from throughout the nation and Canada. Additional firefighting resources from Australia, Greece, New Zealand and Samoa have been deployed on fire lines. Both lower temperatures and overnight humidity recovery are predicted to be more favorable for firefighting efforts in the short term. The priority of firefighting is for the protection of life, property and natural resources.
Download the latest fact sheet. (Updated 7/16 at 9 a.m.)
Download the latest statewide map.

Statewide Fire Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 2,085
• Total Fires Contained: 2,005
• Total Active Fires: 80
• Total Acres Burned: 879,152

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred from state, local and federal firefighting agencies beginning June 20, 2008.

CAL FIRE Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 1,005
• Fires Contained: 994
• Active Fires: 11
• Acres Burned: 262,133

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred ONLY in CAL FIRE jurisdiction since June 20, 2008.
The number of contained and active fires will not equal the total due to some fires merging together.

Statewide Resources Committed

• Personnel Committed: 18,730
• Fire Engines: 1,175
• Hand Crews: 448
• Dozers: 204
• Water Tenders: 334
• Helicopters: 112

Highway closures: State highways, county and local roads are closed throughout California due to wildfire activities. All major roads are now open with delays on State Highways 32, 70 and 299. Travelers are advised to seek current information on secondary road closures from local law enforcement. Click here for detailed road closures.

Evacuations: Areas of Kern, Monterey, Shasta and Trinity counties are under evacuation orders at this time. Precautionary evacuation orders currently exist in areas in Butte, Kern, Monterey, Shasta and Trinity counties. Residents are advised to monitor their local fire situation, check with local law enforcement agencies for information, and be prepared to evacuate when necessary. Click here for detailed evacuation information.

Structures:
Threatened : 6,458 residences, 129 commercial, 2,270 outbuildings.
Destroyed : 101 residences, 1 commercial, 138 outbuildings.

And since it's going to be a short post for today (Real life has gotten in the way a bit.. lol) I'll add a cute kitty.... Have a great day folks!

moar funny pictures

Firefighters are Definitely Gaining Against the Fires!

Here is the update from Cal Fire for 9am this morning. Look at the numbers for the active fires!

Statewide Fire Overview - Lightning Series

Current Situation: Over nineteen hundred fires have been contained due to the endless efforts of firefighters from California, as well as from throughout the nation and internationally. Favorable weather conditions continue to be predicted over the next several days. Firefighters are taking advantage of the favorable weather conditions and are making good progress on containment. All Red Flag Warnings have been rescinded. The priority of firefighting is for the protection of life, property and natural resources.
Download the latest fact sheet. (Updated 7/15 at 9 a.m.)
Download the latest statewide map.

Statewide Fire Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 2,010
• Total Fires Contained: 1,983
• Total Active Fires: 96
• Total Acres Burned: 866,184

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred from state, local and federal firefighting agencies beginning June 20, 2008.

CAL FIRE Statistics

• Total Fires at Peak: 1,005
• Fires Contained: 992
• Active Fires: 14
• Acres Burned: 257,128

These numbers are total fires and acres that have occurred ONLY in CAL FIRE jurisdiction since June 20, 2008.
The number of contained and active fires will not equal the total due to some fires merging together.

Statewide Resources Committed

• Personnel Committed: 19,493
• Fire Engines: 1,347
• Hand Crews: 461
• Dozers: 206
• Water Tenders: 371
• Helicopters: 121

Highway closures: State highways, county and local roads are closed throughout California due to wildfire activities. Closures and delays remain in place for State Highways 32, 70 (delays) and 299 (delays). Travelers are advised to seek current information from local law enforcement. Click here for detailed road closures.

Evacuations:Areas of Kern, Monterey, Shasta and Trinity counties are under evacuation orders at this time. Precautionary evacuation orders currently exist in areas in Butte, Kern, Mendocino, Monterey, Plumas, Shasta and Trinity counties. Residents are advised to monitor their local fire situation, check with local law enforcement agencies for information, and be prepared to evacuate when necessary. Click here for detailed evacuation information.

Structures:
Threatened: 7,657 residences, 139 commercial, 2,310 outbuildings.
Destroyed: 100 residences, 1 commercial, 129 outbuildings.

I'm not going to repeat the list of fires in this post, but if you go to my previous post, the links in it are still "good" for the individual fires.