Yosemite Rim Fire [MAP, UPDATE 2013]: Blaze grows to size of Chicago; San Francisco reservoir in danger

BBC video screenshot

The California 'Rim' fire continues to blaze into the northern border of Yosemite National Park.

The fire has so far grown to over 207 square miles, the size of Chicago, and firefighters are struggling to contain it.

Homes are in danger and even San Francisco's reservoir and energy supply is in danger from the growing fire.

According to latest updates, firefighters are struggling to fight the fire as it burns further into the national park.

The weather conditions are not helping as strong winds continue to blow up to 25 mph.

Officials are taking extra precautions to protect the giant sequoia trees, although they are known to resist fire.

The Hetch Hetchy reservoir, which provides 85 percent of water to San Francisco, is 4 miles from the blaze. Two hydroelectric power plants have also been shut down in case the blaze reaches it.

A state of emergency has been declared by California governor Jerry Brown.

The Rim Fire has grown massively since it started at a canyon of the Stanislaus National Forest on Aug. 17. The dry weather conditions and the sheer size of the fire has made it difficult to predict which direction it will grow. Only 7 percent of the blaze has been contained so far.

The fire has threatened over 4,500 structures.

The main tourist attraction of Yosemite National Park remains open as of now. The blaze is 20 miles away from the tourist center.

Up to 4,000 firefighters continue to battle the fast-moving blaze.

Google Maps
Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
A three day journey by canoe to receive life-saving treatment from Mercy Ships
A three day journey by canoe to receive life-saving treatment from Mercy Ships

Most Madagascans cannot afford surgery, even on the rare occasions its available.

Drought insurance helps Nepal families survive food crisis
Drought insurance helps Nepal families survive food crisis

An innovative drought insurance scheme has provided emergency support to hundreds of vulnerable farming families in western Nepal

Britain has become ‘dangerously complacent’ over family breakdown
Britain has become ‘dangerously complacent’ over family breakdown

Dr Harry Benson, Research Director at the Marriage Foundation, said the latest official data on families and households pointed to a “profound social change” that had received little public attention despite long-term consequences for family stability and child wellbeing.

Church of Scotland issues slavery apology
Church of Scotland issues slavery apology

The Church of Scotland General Assembly said it was “grieved beyond telling” for the suffering inflicted.