An onslaught of wildfires across a wide swath of Northern California broke out almost simultaneously then grew exponentially, swallowing up properties from wineries to trailer parks and tearing through both tiny rural towns and urban subdivisions.
- At least 13 dead, 100 injured
- More than 20,000 people evacuated
- At least 57,000 acres burned so far
At least 13 were dead, at least 100 injured and at least 2,000 homes and businesses have been destroyed, authorities said. All three figures were expected to surge in the coming days as more information is reported.
Taken as a group, the fires are already among the deadliest in California history.
The northern part of the state is where most of the fires have been reported. Sonoma County says some 200 missing-person reports have been filed as family members and friends scramble to find loved ones.
Officials say that at least 57,000 acres have been burned so far. In addition, more than 20,000 people forced to evacuate.
"We need every resident, every resident to heed evacuation warnings and orders and move out quickly and orderly," warned Chief Ken Pimlott, director of Cal Fire.
A sunset to sunrise curfew is in effect in Santa Rosa, where there have also been reports of looting.
"I want to say to the people of California and all of those that are in the path of these advancing wildfires. We are with you," said Vice President Mike Pence.
Pence spoke in California on Monday night, which is under a state of emergency due to fast-moving wildfires.
"It's devastating. It's devastating. Panic stricken it's just so scary and we got to watch for embers," said Wirt Cook, who is defending his Santa Rosa home from the fires.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.