SACRAMENTO, June 12 (UPI) -- Wind-whipped northern California fires have destroyed more than 50 homes, forced evacuation of about 1,200 residents and scorched thousands of acres.
Three firefighters were reported injured when they were overrun by flames that suddenly changed directions in gusty winds near Lincoln, about 30 miles northeast of Sacramento, the state capital.
A wildfire burning about three miles west of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park burned part of the community of Bonny Doon in Santa Cruz County, forcing a mass evacuation, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. The town is home to many artists, writers and musicians.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency in Butte County, where firefighters struggled to control the vast Humboldt fire.
