Bay Area fire agencies are heading to central California to help battle a wind-driven wildfire that has killed two people and burned dozens of homes, authorities said Friday.
A number of local fire agencies are sending aid for the Erskine Fire, including Palo Alto, Gilroy, Morgan Hill and South Santa Clara, according to Cal Fire. The fire had burned more than 30,000 acres and was 5 percent contained by 6:30 p.m. Friday.
The wildfire prompted Gov. Jerry Brown to declare a state of emergency in Kern County. The proclamation issued Friday issues money and resources to fight the fire and for the aftermath.
The rapidly-moving blaze destroyed at least 80 homes in the southern Sierra Nevada and scorched more than 29 square miles as it ripped through neighborhoods. About 1,500 homes have been ordered to evacuate.
The wildfire erupted Thursday afternoon and moved so quickly that several people had little time to flee as propane tanks exploded and dense smoke obscured the path to safety.
Two bodies were found in Lake Isabella, a recreation area east of Bakersfield, said Phil Neufeld, a spokesman for Kern County Fire Department. Three firefighters have been hospitalized for smoke inhalation.
Check back for updates.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Contact Katrina Cameron at 925-945-4782. Follow her at Twitter.com/KatCameron91.