California wildfire claims over 100 homes

November 15, 3:39 AMDenver Weather ExaminerTony Hake

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Fire approaches a mansion during a wildfire, Friday,
Nov. 14, 2008, in Santa Barbara, Calif. 
(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

The Tea Fire in Montecito, California has destroyed 111 homes, damaged 9 others and has claimed 1,800 acres thus far.  According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE) the blaze is currently 0% contained and more than 1,500 homes remain threatened. 

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency in Santa Barbara County where about 5,440 homes were evacuated in Montecito.  Montecito, a town of 14,000 where many celebrities live amongst locals, remained threated Friday night.   The fire which began at 6:00pm Thursday night quickly ballooned into a major wildfire under extreme winds gusting to 70 mph.  Dry brush and oil-rich eucalyptus trees helped the blaze explode quickly and 13 people have been injured thus far, mainly from smoke inhalation.  

Friday firefighters were able to hold their own against the blaze and hope to make progress in containing the blaze.  Winds have subsided overnight but High Wind Warnings and Red Flag Warnings remain in effect for much of southern California.

Late Friday news broke of a second fire in Sylmar, California where news video shot by helicopter showed flames topping a ridge in the Angeles National Forest, about 25 miles north of Los Angeles.  At least three homes have been claimed by that fire and the area is being readied for evacuation. 

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