The widespread wildfire that has proven
to be California's biggest this year is expected to spew smoke
throughout the Labor Day weekend, emptying some campgrounds and
prompting health warnings.Overnight, the fire burning east of Fresno grew to 134 square miles. It was 25 percent contained as of Saturday. According to officials, the blaze is only one of a few factors challenging planned outdoor activities in recent weeks. An
infestation of bugs swarmed high-desert communities on the eastern
slopes of the Sierra Nevada. In addition, an 18-day manhunt along the
famed Pacific Crest Trail ended with the suspect's death. The
fire that began July 31 during a lightning strike has closed roads and
about 10 campgrounds around Hume Lake and Kings Canyon.
Half a dozen wildfires were burning
throughout California, a relatively small number compared to the past
two hot months that kept firefighters running, said Daniel Berlant, a
spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
Despite the welcomed lull caused by cooler temperatures, he said fire season is entering its peak time.
Vegetation remains dry from the hot summer, and the winds pick up in the transition to fall, fanning the smallest spark.
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