Exploding California wildfires prompt evacuation orders for 100,000

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About 100,000 people in Orange County are under evacuation orders this morning as the region braces for another blast of dangerous weather. That could push two wildfires into residential areas. Forecasters are predicting Santa Ana winds with gusts of up to 50 to 80 MPH at times over much of Southern California, with some the strongest expected in Orange County. Two firefighters were critically injured yesterday fighting the Silverado fired their Irvine and Lake Forest each suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns over much their bodies, according to Orange County Fire chief Brian Fennessy. I was at the hospital shortly after both firefighters were brought to the hospital. They're gravely injured. An investigation is underway to determine how the firefighters were overcome by the flames. Southern California Edison reported to the state's Public Utilities Commission last night. It's investigating whether it's equipment might have started the fire. The utility said a wire that last two telecommunications line to a supporting cable may have struck a high voltage conducting line. Silverado Fire has burned over is 12,000 Acres and is now 5% contained. Irvine Mayor Christina Shay says residents need to be ready to go as soon as they get the word. We're urging everyone to comply with the evacuation orders, please for their safety and safety of our first responders. The winds were so strong that firefighters had to ground their aircraft for much the day they got back up by late yesterday afternoon and work through much the night a second blaze. The Blue Ridge Fire started in Santa Ana Canyon yesterday and has now grown to 8000 acres. That fire near your blend is also is completely uncontained and has forced about 20,000 people to evacuate.

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