Fast-Moving Alisal Fire, Threatens Santa Barbara, Prompting Evacuations.<br />NPR reports that a growing blaze driven <br />by intense winds raised the threat <br />of wildfires across much of California.<br />NPR reports that a growing blaze driven <br />by intense winds raised the threat <br />of wildfires across much of California.<br />County fire officials said that as of October 13, <br />the Alisal Fire covered 21 square miles along coastal Santa Barbara County.<br />The fire came as powerful gusts of wind <br />swept across the state, toppling trees <br />and whipping up dust clouds.<br />Officials said that over 200 firefighters were battling the blaze, and it was only 5% contained.<br />The fire erupted on October 11, forcing <br />the only major highway on that section <br />of the coast, U.S. 101, to be shut down. .<br />Evacuation orders and warnings were<br />in place for several rural communities.<br />The massive, fast-moving fire threatened <br />over 100 homes, ranches and other buildings.<br />On October 12, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors declared a local emergency.<br />They urged Gov. Gavin Newsom to declare<br />a state of emergency to free more state <br />resources for firefighters and evacuees.<br />They urged Gov. Gavin Newsom to declare<br />a state of emergency to free more state <br />resources for firefighters and evacuees.<br />High winds have exacerbated an already dangerous situation in a state where heat waves and a historic drought have left forests and brush tinder-dry.<br />According to NPR, fires that began <br />in the summer continue to burn <br />after destroying hundreds of homes
