Area Man Helps Fight Wildfire out West

(WOLO) Northern, California–

A wildfire out west has been burning for nearly two weeks and officials say is threatening more than 45 hundred homes and making it’s way into the Yosemite National Park.

Steve Moore, an employee with the South Carolina Forestry Commission has been working here at home for years and is now in California assisting with their efforts as crews try to find the best ways to attack the blaze.

Moore says the conditions have been challenging. Windy afternoons causing the fire to jump and spread. In addition to gaining control over the wildfire, the heavy smoke is becoming an increasing concern as well.

Moore says the fire is so intense, it could cause a 32 diameter tree to burn to dust. What’s worse, crews say it could be a few more weeks before they’re able to contain it.

“it’s a great feeling to know that your team is helping to defend these homes and businesses as well as these national resources. These people out here depend on these recreational areas as income from the people who come out and visit.”