California island fire linked to sailor’s distress flare scorches 10,000 acres
Summary
A wildfire on Santa Rosa Island, part of California’s Channel Islands national park, has burned over 10,000 acres and destroyed historic buildings. The fire began after a sailor stranded on the island set off distress flares, which may have started the blaze.Key Facts
- The fire started on Friday and has burned more than 10,000 acres, making it California’s largest wildfire so far this year.
- About 60 firefighters are working to control the fire, but strong winds have made it difficult.
- The fire is currently 0% contained.
- A 67-year-old sailor crashed his boat, got stranded, and shot flares to call for help.
- The flares likely caused the wildfire, but the National Park Service is still investigating.
- The sailor was rescued by the Coast Guard and taken to a hospital; he was not injured.
- Two historic structures were destroyed by the fire.
- The island is home to rare plants and ecosystems that have been partly restored after removal of non-native animals.
- Santa Rosa Island is closed to visitors while firefighters work to control the fire.
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