Tag: wildfire

More evacuations lifted as containment grows on Lucas Fire in Northern California

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Firefighters walk a hillside toward a wildfire above a rural community

A growing number of residents in two Northern California counties have been allowed to return home as firefighters increased containment on the Lucas Fire burning near the Mendocino National Forest. As of Tuesday afternoon, the fire burned 4,128 acres and is 35% contained, according to Cal Fire. The fire started Thursday morning near the Lake County – Mendocino County line southeast of Potter Valley. “Overnight, the fire remained within established control lines and crews continued to work on strengthening those,” officials said in a statement.

“Some evacuation orders have been lifted and traffic control points have been reduced. Residents and visitors should continue to follow remaining evacuation orders and local traffic-control directions.” On Monday afternoon, authorities downgraded evacuation orders to evacuation warnings in several zones but noted that returning residents should stay prepared to evacuate again if conditions change.

“Stronger northwest winds are expected later in the afternoon, which could increase fire activity in areas that continue to hold heat,” officials said Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, the evacuation status in 10 other zones has been cleared. As of Tuesday morning, evacuations are in effect for the following zones:

Lake County

  • MNF-E018
  • UPP-E023-B

Evacuation warnings are in effect for these zones:

Lake County

  • MNF-E016
  • MNF-E019
  • UPP-E023-A
  • UPP-E025
  • UPP-E027
  • UPP-E030

Mendocino County

  • MEN-2POT08-B

On Tuesday morning, the U.S. Forest Service has updated an emergency closure in the Upper Lake Ranger District of the Mendocino National Forest. While the Middle Creek, Penny Pines and Deer Valley campgrounds have reopened, roads and trails in the Hunter Point and Middle Creek area remain closed. No injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Source: More evacuations lifted as containment grows on Lucas Fire in Northern California – CBS San Francisco

For I have satiated the weary soul, and I have replenished every sorrowful soul.
Jeremiah 31:25

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Fast-growing Hawk Fire near Reno, Nevada forces thousands to evacuate

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A fast-growing wildfire spread from the Sierra foothills toward the center of Reno early Sunday, as approximately 90,000 residents were urged to evacuate. The fire has been burning across a rugged section of the Humboldt–Toiyabe National Forest, where Peavine Mountain is ringed by homes and businesses on the Nevada side of the California state line, and some of these homes have been consumed by the flames.  Six people, including three responders, have been injured, officials said Sunday.

The “GO NOW” zone, where 42,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate, reached the edge of the University of Nevada campus as the Hawk Fire grew to more than 13,000 acres. An additional 45,000 people were in the evacuation warning zone and encouraged to leave now and be prepared to stay away for several days to clear the roads for first responders. As of Sunday morning, the Hawk Fire was 0% contained and was moving in different directions as the winds changed, complicating the fight. The fire is believed to have been caused by a human, but the investigation is ongoing, authorities said Sunday. Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and mobilized the Nevada National Guard to support aerial firefighting with two helicopter crews as well as 60 troops to help police safeguard evacuated neighborhoods.

“This is an active and rapidly evolving situation, and I urge everyone in the affected areas to remain vigilant and follow the direction of local officials,” Lombardo said in a statement posted on social media. “The state is fully engaged, and we are working alongside local authorities and first responders to deploy every available resource to protect lives, safeguard communities, and keep Nevadans out of harm’s way.” The fire apparently began Saturday and grew significantly throughout the day, fueled by strong, gusty winds, low humidity and dry vegetation, according to a statement from Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue. “The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it’s being driven by the winds,” Richard Edwards, chief of Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue in Washoe County, said in a video posted to social media.

“The wind-driven fires move very rapidly into our residential areas, creating a lot of challenges for our firefighters to save homes and protect lives.” The fire zone is surrounded by neighborhoods, and nearly 10,000 homes and businesses were without power in Washoe County on Sunday. Portions of U.S. Route 395, a major north-south highway, were closed due to the fire. Reno has a population of more than 280,000 residents. Classes in all but one school in the Washoe County School District will be canceled on Monday due to “evacuations, impacts on regional public safety resources, and to help keep roads clear for emergency vehicles,” district officials announced. “If you have been told to evacuate, please don’t wait!” Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve said in a statement posted on social media late Saturday night. “Structures have already been burned in this fire and your life is more important than a building.

Evacuating before the fire arrives also allows our firefighters to focus their efforts on battling the blaze.” Casinos in Reno offered discounts on hotel rooms to evacuees. Washoe County, Nevada, emergency officials opened the Reno-Sparks Convention Center to evacuees, but said they couldn’t bring their pets — small animals and large animals were to be left at two other locations. The Northwest Specialty Hospital in Washoe County said it has evacuated all patients out of an abundance of caution. “The safety and well-being of our patients and staff remain our highest priority,” the Northern Nevada Health System said in a statement on social media. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport was outside the evacuation zone. Commercial flights at the airport were unaffected Sunday.

The smaller Reno-Stead Airport was closed to general aviation traffic due to the Hawk Fire, but remained open to firefighting aircraft. Earlier this month, three wildfires fueled by hot, dry and windy conditions north of Reno forced more than 13,000 residents from their homes, according to the Nevada National Guard.

Source: Fast-growing Hawk Fire near Reno, Nevada forces thousands to evacuate – CBS News

Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.
Isaiah 60:1

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Old Trails Fire continues burning in northwest Spokane as thousands remain evacuated from their homes

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grass fire at night

The Old Trails Fire that sparked near Old Trails Road and W Euclid Road has burned 3,621 acres as of Monday, according to an incident PIO. It is one of three major wildfires in northwest Spokane County, called the Spokane Area Fires.  Level 3 (Go Now!) Evacuations are in place for the following areas

  • Rutter on the North
  • Strong on the South
  • Spokane River on the West
  • Division on the East
  • Five Mile to the North
  • Strong to the South
  • Five Mile to the West
  • Waikiki on the East
  • Cedar on the West
  • Francis on the North
  • Wellesley on the South
  • Strong on the North
  • Five Mile on the West
  • Cedar on the East
  • Spokane River on the West
  • Trails on the South
  • Nine Mile/Assembly on the East
  • Marchand Road on the North
  • Lyons on the West
  • Newkirk Drive on the North
  • North Hayford Road on the West
  • East Euclid Road on the East
  • Dowdy on the East
  • Westwood on the West

Level 2 (Get Set) Evacuations are in place for the following areas: Between Price on the north, Francis on the south, and Country Homes on the west and Division on the east; between Francis on the north, Wellesley on the south and Ash on the west and Division on the east; between Woodside on the north and Francis on the south, and Assembly on the west and Five Mile on the east; between Marchand Road on the North, Trails and Newkirk on the South, Lyons on the West and North Old Trails on the East; between Newkirk Road on the North and Trails on the South, North Hayford on the West and Old Trails/Westwood on the East; between Newkirk/Euclid on the North and Trails on the South, Westwood on the West and Dowdy/Old Trails on the East; between Euclid/Indian Bluff on the North and Trails on the South, Dowdy on the West and West Euclid Road/Trails on the East; between 4000 N. Indian Bluff Road on the north to West Trails Road on the South, Euclid/Trails on the West and Government Way/Equestrian on the East..

The following areas have been downgraded to Level 1 (Be Ready) Evacuations: Magnesium on the North, Francis on the South, Division on the East and Nevada on the West.  The Old Trails Fire sparked around noon on Saturday and is 0% contained.  An incident PIO says the fire, along with the Fairview Fire near Mead, significantly subdued in activity Sunday, allowing firefighters to focus on structure protection and improving a fire line.  The main evacuation shelter for the Spokane Area Fires is at the Spokane Convention Center, 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd. A shelter at Spokane Falls Community College is closed as of Saturday, according to the Red Cross.   Riverside State Park and Dwight Merkel Sports Complex were also evacuated. The Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center confirmed to KREM 2 that staff evacuated patients and staff members. The VA said 27 patients are currently under the care of staff at area shelters and the hospital has been fully evacuated. 

Red Cross asks people hoping to donate or those who need help to call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) as it will be manned overnight.  The Barking Lot is accepting pets if you are trying to evacuate the area. The address is 15825 E Trent Ave, Spokane Valley WA 99216. To check their availability, call (509) 564-6066. State fire assistance has been mobilized under the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan in support of local firefighters working to contain the Old Trails Fire in Spokane County, near Airway Heights. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has also authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs.

Source: Old Trails Fire continues burning in northwest Spokane as thousands remain evacuated from their homes | krem.com

No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us.
1 John 4:12

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Arson arrest in one of the Spokane area wildfires that have left some residents with nothing – CBS News

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A 37-year-old man was arrested Monday for allegedly starting the largest of the three devastating Spokane, Washington-area wildfires that are leaving some residents with nothing. Aaron Farinacci, a Spokane resident who has a prior manslaughter conviction, was booked on suspicion of first degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire and was being held on $1 million bond, the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office said. Authorities began investigating Farinacci after a witness saw him kneeling near grass where the fire began, Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels told a press conference late Monday.

“We believe it was matches or a lighter. When he was detained … he was found to be in possession of some waterproof matches and a butane lighter,” the sheriff said, adding that Farinacci was only arrested in connection with the Old Trails Fire. With some 67,000 people under evacuation orders amid the three blazes, hundreds could be coming home to total losses. “All of our memories are gone,” said Anna Andreachi, a Spokane resident whose home was lost in the blaze. “My dad just died, and all of his stuff was still in there, too.”  More than 700 buildings in the Spokane area have been destroyed, and another 400 have yet to be assessed, officials said Monday.  “It’s a nightmare situation,” Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson said. “This is likely the worst natural disaster in Spokane history.”

A partially melted street sign sits in front of a burned out residential home in the Balboa neighborhood of Spokane, Washington, on August 2, 2026. Erick Doxey / AFP via Getty Images Joe Cvancara and his family managed to save their home by digging a fire line. But his neighbor’s home and at least eight others in the area were destroyed.  Cvancara said he’s grateful but that it feels like “almost survivor’s guilt, in a way. Like, wow. So we’re going to open our home to our neighbors. I know it’s going to take a long time to rebuild.” The fires began Saturday, when extreme drought, bone-dry brush, high heat and wicked winds combined to create a dangerous environment for fires to spread quickly. Firefighters went door to door trying to save as many homes as they could, but were soon overwhelmed.    As of Monday, no deaths had been reported. Spokane County Sheriff John Knowles told reporters on Monday there were 14 people authorities were trying to get in touch with, but stressed that he didn’t want to qualify them as missing.

“These are people who may have called for help or for help evacuating, and many of them likely did get evacuated,” he said. “You know, with poor cell phone coverage, people’s cell phone batteries die or they get to some place where they do find shelter and we haven’t been able to reach them by phone. So, that’s the task … for those 14 people that we haven’t been able to talk to.” The Old Trails Fire and the Fairview Fire are both still burning, but the main focus for firefighters on Sunday and Monday was the Autumn Lane Fire. The heat and wind that initially fueled the fires had died down by the beginning of the week, but the dangerous conditions are expected to return by Wednesday. Daniel Ramey, a spokesperson for the California Interagency Incident Management Team 7, which is taking part in the firefighting efforts, told CBS News that the next few days could be critical for firefighting efforts. “It looks like Wednesday into Friday we’re going to be seeing a heat trend up to the 90s, so it’s really time for us to put in the work … on this fire up north and continue the efforts with getting the communities back into their homes as soon as possible below us,” he said.

Three members of the Spokane Fire Department sit on a curb in front of burned down homes in the Balboa neighborhood of Spokane, Washington, on August 2, 2026.  Erick Doxey / AFP via Getty Images Ramey said that while the three fires aren’t particularly big compared to other notable wildfires, the issue is that they have occurred in what’s known as the wildland-urban interface — areas where human structures sit on the edge or within the wilderness. “There’s always a chance when you live next to trees and grass and the beautiful nature that you’re going to have a potential for fire like we saw,” he said. “We didn’t have rain for the whole month of July in this area, so everything was extremely dry. Everything was susceptible to those new starts, like we saw.”

For the Pacific Northwest, this has been one of the worst fire seasons in three decades. At least 16 major fires are burning in Washington state. In Utah, a fire has burned nearly 70,000 acres after doubling in size Monday. The Big Rock Fire in southeastern Idaho has burned more than 2,500 acres and forced evacuations. Ramey warns things could get worse, with California still relatively quiet so far but firefighting resources already stretched thin.

Source: Arson arrest in one of the Spokane area wildfires that have left some residents with nothing – CBS News

Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.
Romans 15:2

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Fires near Spokane have burned 600 structures and forced 60,000 evacuations

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close up of burning flames

The fires in and around Spokane, Washington state’s second largest city, burned about 8.2 square miles over the weekend.

Source: (3) Fires near Spokane have burned 600 structures and forced 60,000 evacuations – YouTube

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23

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BWCA wildfires latest: More than 70K acres burned

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Helicopter collecting water

Wildfires in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area have burned more than 70,000 acres, with evacuations and closures in effect in multiple counties as of Sunday, July 19. FOX 9 has team coverage with Ian Leonard, and Bill Keller up on the Gunflint Trail.

Source: (667) BWCA wildfires latest: More than 70K acres burned – YouTube

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28

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Evacuation warnings in place as 50-acre fire burns on Mount Diablo in Contra Costa County

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forest fire and environmental disaster

Evacuation warnings were in place near Mount Diablo as a 50-acre blaze, which fire officials have named the Morgan Fire, broke out in Contra Costa County on Friday afternoon. The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District told CBS News Bay Area that reports of the fire came in just before 3 p.m. The Morgan Fire is burning in the area of Morgan Territory and March Creek Road with fire retardant around roughly 75% of the fire line, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention (Cal Fire) said.

Cal Fire airplanes were seen flying over the area. Footage reviewed by CBS News Bay Area showed helitankers dumping water over the flames, and firefighters have been working to fight back the blaze on the ground. According to PG&E, there have been no outages from the Morgan Fire, but they said they are closely monitoring the situation. There have been no reports yet as of Friday evening as to how this fire started. Evacuation warnings in place Two zones stretching south from the point of the fire are under an evacuation warning, meaning people in those areas should be ready to leave immediately if the conditions worsen.

Those zones are CCC-249 and CCC-250, and they stretch south along the east side of Mount Diablo State Park to the Morgan Regional Preserve. View a live evacuation order map of the Morgan Fire here.

Source: Evacuation warnings in place as 50-acre fire burns on Mount Diablo in Contra Costa County – CBS San Francisco

Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.
1 John 4:15

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Boundary Waters wilderness burning at U.S

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a sunset over a lake with clouds in the sky

Wildfires flared earlier this week and destroyed thousands of acres in Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota, with many of the fires straddling the U.S.-Canadian border. The Western Fire Chiefs’ map on Thursday afternoon tracked at least 17 wildfires in Minnesota, and at least 10 in Canada, near the border. The largest in Canada covered over 70,600 acres, while the largest Minnesota fire spread over 13,500 acres. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area, or BWCA, a popular wilderness area stretching 1 million acres on either side of the border, has been hit extremely hard.

Nearby residents posted videos showing the plumes of smoke covering the sky, with one local posting he hasn’t slept since watching his home burn. What caused the fires? Officials reported that a downed power line caused at least one fire in Minnesota, while at least one other resulted from an abandoned campfire in Manitoba, Canada. Officials reported that at least one other fire sparked during a lightning storm, and several other fires have undetermined causes. The fires have spread due to area dryness and record-high heat in the region. What steps have been taken? Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz declared a peacetime emergency and activated the National Guard, while rangers evacuated the BWCA. Forest officials estimated that up to 10,000 campers and canoers were within the park when evacuation orders were issued.

As of Tuesday, at least 17 people were rescued with no injuries reported. State and federal firefighters worked to contain the fires via land and air efforts. The BWCA will remain closed until at least Friday, the first time it has closed in 45 years, according to The Minnesota Star Tribune. Authorities ordered evacuations from nearby residential areas to keep locals out of the fire’s path. Fernberg Road in Minnesota has been evacuated, which has raised concerns as it is the only road in or out of Ely, Minn., the entrance to the BWCA area. MPR News released a video showing some of the evacuation efforts in the BWCA. Where else is affected? New York Gov. Kathy Hochul released a statement on Thursday morning warning New Yorkers that smoke from the fires would continue blanketing the Empire State. She expected air quality to worsen and unhealthy air conditions to spread across the state.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a similar statement on Thursday, instructing residents to stay inside whenever possible. Air quality levels across the state ranged between very unhealthy and hazardous, she reported. Wisconsin officials also issued an air quality advisory on Thursday due to wildfire smoke, suggesting residents wear N95 respirator masks and program air conditioning units to recirculate indoor air.

Source: Boundary Waters wilderness burning at U.S-Canada border | WORLD

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling.
Ephesians 4:4

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Aspen Acres Fire in southern Colorado surpasses 100,000 acres, reaches 61% containment

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On Friday, fire crews in southern Colorado managed to improve containment of the Aspen Acres Fire, even as the wildfire grew to approximately 100,223 acres. The Aspen Acres Fire is the largest wildfire burning in the State of Colorado and is the seventh-largest wildfire by acreage in the state’s history, according to the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control. This estimate would make the Aspen Acres Fire slightly smaller than the 2018 Spring Creek Fire, which burned 108,045 acres. (This does not include the West Fork Complex, which consisted of multiple fires that burned in close proximity.)

The Aspen Acres Fire seen in the distance from Rye, Colo., on July 13, 2026. Rye Fire Protection District Extreme fire conditions present when the fire sparked have eased somewhat, but the area still faces moderate fire danger. Strategic Operations Chief Manny Mendoza says the increase in moisture and calmer winds have allowed crews to be more aggressive in their containment efforts without putting the firefighters in as much danger. So far, they have reached 61% containment. Mendoza says the Aspen Acres Fire was considered the largest fire disaster in the country yesterday until fires in the northwest intensified, making it more challenging to obtain out-of-state resources.

He said crews are trying to “squeeze the box” to limit the fire’s growth, which involves riskier approaches where possible as they work to strengthen the fire line and increase containment. Dozer line along Highway 165 on the Northwestern side of the Aspen Acres Fire Northern Rockies Incident Management Team 6 Some evacuations have been downgraded, but Mendoza stressed it’s important to be careful as they don’t want people to return home prematurely. In a letter to the community on Monday, Rye Fire Protection District Fire Chief Ross Gallegos empathized with residents anxious to return, but warned that the fire is only two miles from the town and remains a threat to public safety.

He urged residents to be patient and asked those already allowed to return not to travel beyond established checkpoints without authorization. Huerfano County Commissioner Mitchell Wardell said that Huerfano County is entering a water conservation notice and asked residents to help save water. The U.S. Forest Service reminded nearby residents that, even as containment of the fire grows, it will likely take a while for it to be completely under control.

Source: Aspen Acres Fire in southern Colorado surpasses 100,000 acres, reaches 61% containment – CBS Colorado

For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.
Galatians 5:17

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Detroit’s air quality early Thursday ranked as hazardous, worst in the world – CBS Detroit

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Wildfire smoke drifted across Southeast Michigan Wednesday night and a smoky, hazy sky resulting from fine particulate pollution was clearly visible by daybreak on Thursday.  All of Michigan is under an air quality alert through Friday.  The air was so bad early Thursday in Southeast Michigan that Detroit was listed as having the worst air quality in the world in the IQAir database, well into the “hazardous” range, topping even Toronto, Canada, and Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

The smoke plume from hundreds of wildfires in Canada and Minnesota began crossing into Northern Michigan during the day on Wednesday. By midnight Wednesday, the MiAir database showed significantly deteriorating air quality in Southeast Michigan.  The CBS News Detroit weather team has declared Thursday and Friday to be NEXT Weather Alert Days, stepping up forecasts and announcements as needed. 

Air quality forecast for Metro Detroit on July 16, 2026. CBS News Detroit How bad is the air?  The MiAir database run by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy showed air quality numbers well over the “very unhealthy” range in multiple locations in Metro Detroit early Thursday.   Other communities in Michigan, including Lansing, Flint and Grand Rapids saw readings at or above the very unhealthy range early Thursday. 

The air quality reading in Detroit at 5 a.m. July 16, 2026. Screen image from the AirNow website. AirNow How can this affect your health? Dr. Herb Aronow, the chair of heart and vascular health at Henry Ford Health, says unhealthy air affects everyone with heart and vascular diseases, even those who haven’t been diagnosed yet. Even healthy people may notice eye irritation or difficulty breathing during prolonged outdoor activity.  How widespread is the smoke?  It’s not just Michigan facing air quality issues. Several states are or will be in the path of the wildfire smoke plume.  Some of the wildfires feeding the smoke plume are in Minnesota, where much of the state is under an air quality alert. 

An air quality alert called for the Chicago area was aggravated by wildfire smoke drifting into the region.  Pennsylvania will be under a code red air quality alert on Thursday, the state’s Department of Environmental Protection says.  And the entire state of Ohio was placed under an air quality alert for Thursday as air quality readings may reach the unhealthy stage, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency said.  A map of the wildfire smoke plume across Michigan and other states on July 16, 2026. CBS News Detroit What does this mean for summer events and programs? 

The combination of poor air quality rising on the heels of a heat wave in Metro Detroit resulted in several summer school and community program closures for Thursday.  When will Detroit get a break from the smoke?  A cold front will move through Southeast Michigan Thursday night into Friday, bringing cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and a shift in winds that should gradually push the wildfire smoke out of the region and improve air quality heading into the weekend. 

Source: Detroit’s air quality early Thursday ranked as hazardous, worst in the world – CBS Detroit

Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.
Jeremiah 29:12

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“One more rough day”: Sensitive groups urged to limit exposure to wildfire smoke in Massachusetts

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city in fog

The sky over Boston has become a yellow haze that has turned the air into a smoke scented frustration as people try to enjoy the summer weather. The haze is the result of roughly 800 wildfires in Canada that have pushed smoke into New England and created an alien feel. “I thought I was on Mars, except I could breathe and I wasn’t too cold,” said Mike Cloud who came to the city for Sail Boston. “Someone this morning was pointing out the sun looked orange.”

“It almost felt like you were at a campsite with an active fire going,” said West Roxbury resident James Venezia. WBZ meteorologists say the haze began to descend on Wednesday, which resulted in an air quality alert statewide through Thursday night. “Honestly, I felt like I was getting a little issue with my heart and with my breathing. As I inhaled, I don’t know if it was my mind playing tricks on me, or if it was truly the environment just bothering me,” said Keneshia Venezia. Wildfire smoke health concerns James and Keneshia came to the city with their two little ones to see Sail Boston. The thick air left her concerned. “I was just thinking is it even safe for us to be out here? He’s two, he’s four. Can their little lungs handle this?” said Keneshia.

“Any kids that have asthma, similar symptoms to that, should probably limit their exposure and their exertion just today and tomorrow,” National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist Frank Nocera said on Wednesday. He says ozone and smoke particulates are to blame for some of the breathing issues. “Unfortunately, people who have any sensitivities to smoke or any pollutants are suffering today, and unfortunately it looks like we have one more rough day coming up tomorrow,” said Nocera.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is monitoring air quality from one of their 26 stations around the state. They took WBZ inside their one in Kenmore Square. “In here we have air monitoring analyzers. Each analyzes for a different air pollutant,” said Massachusetts DEP Deputy Division Director Sean Dunn. Air quality alert through Thursday When those thresholds get too high, they issue an air quality alert. They have extended the alert through Thursday. “Currently we are in the orange part of that air quality index. That is unhealthy for sensitive groups which include young people or senior citizens,” said Dunn. “We recommend limited activity outdoors and staying inside when possible.” “I’m fine. I can deal with it.

I smoked 22 years, two packs a day, but I quit in 1990. I knew when to quit,” said Dennis Quick, a tourist from Pennsylvania who was also taking in Sail Boston. Quick spent years on a research vessel for Columbia University. They were tasked with gathering 40,000 samples from the ocean floor. During his travels at sea, he saw some interesting skies, but never a yellow haze like the one over Boston. “Out there in the sky, I saw a green flash when the sun went down on the horizon,” said Quick. He will be sure to watch the sunset Wednesday evening as well. Whatever color that may be.

Source: “One more rough day”: Sensitive groups urged to limit exposure to wildfire smoke in Massachusetts – CBS Boston

Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.
Acts 4:32

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Dangerous smoke from Canadian wildfires moves into the Great Lakes and Northeast

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mountainous countryside against cloudy morning sky

Massive plumes of Canadian wildfire smoke are set to pour over the border into the United States, bringing dangerous air quality to more than 100 million people in the Midwest and Northeast. Smoke has already been an issue this summer in parts of the West, Plains and Midwest as stateside fires have burned more than 3.6 million acres, mostly in the western half of the country. But the thicker smoke, forecast to move over New York, Washington, DC and other cities in the East, is from wildfires to the north. Check out the smoke forecast in the CNN Weather app In Canada, more than 3,000 fires have burned nearly 4.5 million acres this summer, with a dozen blazes flaring up in Ontario in recent weeks, filling the skies with smoke that is starting to drift south, like it did in an extreme way in 2023. Canadian wildfire activity this year is nowhere near the hyperactivity of 2023 but the combination of wildfires in Ontario and a heat dome in the central US spells smoky trouble for millions.

Planet-heating fossil fuel pollution is increasing the chance of prolonged smoke seasons as it tips the odds that extreme wildfire seasons like 2023’s — Canada’s worst season on record — won’t remain an outlier for long. Unhealthy smoke heads for Great Lakes and Northeast A first round of smoke is already floating over a large area from Chicago to Boston. This smoke has largely stayed higher up in the atmosphere, which means it hasn’t precipitously lowered air quality or posed a significant health risk. But a weather pattern change in coming days will cause lingering smoke and additional plumes to sink to the surface Wednesday and Thursday bringing unhealthy air quality from the Upper Midwest to New England. Wildfire smoke contains dangerous, tiny pollutants called PM2.5 that can travel deep into the lungs or enter the bloodstream when inhaled. The minuscule particles can lead to breathing problems like bronchitis and cause inflammation that aggravates diabetes, heart disease and other health conditions.

Much of Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin are under air quality alerts due to smoke over the next few days, and the National Weather Service has warned that smoke could become an air quality concern in Chicago later this week. People with lung or heart disease, children and older adults are especially at risk for smoke-related illness. The NWS advises people avoid smoke by limiting outdoor activities and keeping windows closed overnight. The only silver lining the smoke brings is that it could dampen some of the heat. Smoke blocks sunlight, which would be welcome news for many parts of the Northeast expected to see high temperatures in the coming days. The smoke is now streaming into the US thanks to a record-breaking heat dome parked over the central part of the country. So far there have been several heat domes — large, slow-moving high pressure systems — this year from the West Coast to the Northeast.

Air flows clockwise around these domes, but until now, none of them have been in quite the right spot to drag Canadian smoke south. The northern edge of this week’s heat dome is perfectly placed over northern Minnesota and southern Ontario, where wildfires rage. This placement means smoke will flow east and south, right into parts of the Midwest and Northeast. With several months left in wildfire season, the door will remain open for more Canadian smoke plumes to migrate south. How does this smoke compare to 2023? This time three years ago, records were being broken as 4,300 fires had already burned 25 million acres across Canada. In June 2023, smoke consumed the New York City skyline as northerly winds pushed a wall of wildfire smoke from Quebec into the Big Apple. The culprits were a dominant high pressure system in the Hudson Bay and a storm system over Atlantic Canada. Together, they funneled smoke into the Midwest and Northeast. Both systems were stagnant, keeping the smoke in place for about four days. 2023’s smoke event was so far-reaching, a study from last year estimates more than 350 million people were exposed to daily wildfire smoke-induced air pollution. Fortunately, wildfire activity in Canada started later compared to that record-setting year, making it unlikely this year’s smoke will be as pervasive.

Smoke seasons are getting worse In the US, the window for outbreaks of unhealthy wildfire smoke is getting bigger, as fire seasons in the West have become longer and more extreme. Climate change was found to be responsible for the majority of the increase of surface wildfire smoke. This smoke has eroded decades of air quality improvements in parts of the US, particularly in the West. Planet-warming pollution caused approximately 15,000 more deaths in the US from wildfire particulate matter from 2006 to 2020 than would have otherwise occurred in a cooler world, a study published last year found.

Source: Dangerous smoke from Canadian wildfires moves into the Great Lakes and Northeast | CNN

He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; He who keeps understanding will find good.
Proverbs 19:8

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Van Fire burns 1,100 acres in Mariposa County, is 20% contained

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Wildfire flames and smoke spreading across mountainous forest landscape at dusk

A wildfire burning in rural Mariposa County has grown to 1,108 acres and was 20% contained, officials said Wednesday evening. The Van Fire was reported Wednesday northeast of White Rock Road in Cathey’s Valley, and north of Eastman Lake. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said shortly after 2:30 p.m. that the flames were spreading at a dangerous rate, with the potential for it to burn more than 2,000 acres. There were no evacuation orders in effect, and no reports of injuries or damage have been made Cal Fire said it has assigned ground and air resources to battle the blaze as firefighters work to slow its spread.

Source: Van Fire burns 1,100 acres in Mariposa County, is 20% contained – CBS Sacramento

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
1 John 4:10

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McKean Fire southwest of San Jose burns just over 10 acres

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close up of burning flames

Fire crews have stopped the forward progression of the McKean Fire in Santa Clara County Sunday afternoon.  Cal Fire said aviation and ground resources were at the scene of the fire off Alamden Road and Mountain Drive, trying to establish containment lines.   Crews said the fire was burning at a moderate rate, but said the forward progress was stopped at just about 10 acres.  The fire was burning in an area that crews said was in difficult terrain.  No evacuations were issued, but people were urged to avoid the area. 

Source: McKean Fire southwest of San Jose burns just over 10 acres – CBS San Francisco

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Fast-growing Everglades wildfire in Broward scorches thousands of acres, raises concerns about air quality

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Fire crews in western Broward County are continuing battle a new wildfire that ignited in the Florida Everglades over the weekend. The Atlantic Fire, which is burning west of Sunrise, Coral Springs and Tamarac in South Florida, has so far burned 4,755 acres and was 0% contained as of Tuesday morning. As of Tuesday there have been no road closures or no evacuations. Air quality was being affected in parts of Broward and Miami-Dade counties as smoke drifted into the metro area. While the overall Air Quality Index remained in the “good” range, localized air quality sensors detected elevated levels of fine particle pollution.

Light northerly winds were carrying smoke from the wildfire into some neighborhoods, and residents have reported smelling smoke Tuesday morning. On Monday, residents in the area expressed their concern that the growing fire could impact air quality in the area or move closer to their homes. “I suffer from asthma myself and so does my son, so this is one of the things that brought it to my attention to see which way the winds were blowing in,” said Age Casas. “It’s crazy, I’ve never seen this before in my life. I’ve lived for 42 years in South Florida, and this is the first time I’ve ever seen a wildfire live,” said Travis Davis. Their fears come after several large wildfires raged across portions of Miami-Dade earlier this month burning tens of thousands of acres and forcing some people form their homes. Broward residents watch wildfire burn Dozens of curious residents gathered at the Sawgrass Trailhead to watch the Atlantic Fire burn over the weekend and early Monday morning.

“We were able to see the flames a lot better. They’re pretty close. And they’re really bright and there’s a lot of smoke. I brought my camera out here and got some really awesome photos of the wildfire,” Dylan Wise said. Other said they were worried about wildlife in the area. “A little bit sad, I think like animals are losing their homes,” said Adrien Casas. “It’s sad at the same time to think about the wildlife to think that it’s hard for our firefighters to get out there and even try to control something like this,” said Age Casas. It’s unknown what started the fire, and fire crews are continuing to monitor the ongoing situation.

Source: Fast-growing Everglades wildfire in Broward scorches thousands of acres, raises concerns about air quality – CBS Miami

Who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.
Hebrews 1:3

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San Jose brush fire burns near homes before progress stopped

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firefighters standing on the grass

A brush fire burned close to homes in San Jose on Friday before firefighters stopped its forward progress. The fire burned in the Communications Hill area of South San Jose near the Sunshine Hill Cross and began at around 11:15 a.m. The San Jose Fire Department said it burned about seven acres close to the Chateau La Salle mobile home park. The fire’s forward progress was stopped at 12:03 p.m., the Fire Department said.  No structures were burned and there were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire was not immediately determined.

Source: San Jose brush fire burns near homes before progress stopped – CBS San Francisco

You, O LORD, remain forever; Your throne from generation to generation.
Lamentations 5:19

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Utah declares emergency, limits fireworks ahead of July Fourth as crews battle largest U.S. wildfire

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Utah restricted fireworks and declared a state of emergency Friday ahead of July Fourth celebrations as the United States’ largest wildfire expanded its reach across more tinder-dry forest, as crews rush to fight new blazes in the arid state. The National Weather Service issued a rare “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning as dry, windy conditions provided fuel for more fires across the western U.S. The Cottonwood Fire in a sparsely populated area of southern Utah started Monday. It ballooned to more than 112 square miles by Friday, burning unchecked as strong winds grounded air support, forestry officials said.

One of six large wildfires burning in Utah, it severely damaged the Eagle Point ski resort in Beaver County, forcing mandatory evacuations.  As of Friday evening, Utah had 10 active wildfires burning across more than 144,700 acres, according to the state’s wildfire dashboard. The Cottonwood Fire had burned nearly 72,000 acres and is at 0% containment.  “We have the 35 miles-per-hour sustained winds that they predicted, and we definitely have the 45 miles-per-hour gusts,” said Alyssa Mason, a spokesperson assigned to the fire. “So there has been a great increase in the fire activity. We are seeing extreme fire behavior out there with some crown runs and definitely some spotting.”

The smoke has been pushing to the east and northeast, meaning air quality at popular vacation spots like Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks — located far south of the flames — hasn’t been significantly affected beyond some haze in the Bryce area. Still, visitors to Bryce have posted videos on social media showing the giant plume in the distance. The smoke could be seen for hundreds of miles, all the way to Colorado, as authorities put roughly 1,300 residents in the towns of Marysvale, Junction and Circleville on notice that they should be prepared to leave if conditions worsen and the fire pushes farther.  State forester Jamie Barnes had said Thursday that it’s like nothing seen in recent memory. She said fires are spreading farther and faster “under conditions that defy historical expectations.”

Bruce Brown, 76, accompanied the sheriff on Thursday to find that his cabin and others in the area were gone. He found a burned-out moonscape with power poles tipped over along the canyon. Alyssa Olsen, 27, said her family’s cabin also burned. It was the last place they gathered for family photos with her grandmother before she died of cancer. Her brother was planning to get married there in two months. “That stuff you can’t just build back,” Olsen said. Gov. Spencer Cox set the temporary fireworks restrictions through July 5 as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, saying “this year is different.” The weather service in Salt Lake City, for the first time in the office’s history, issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning for five Utah counties, including the area of the Cottonwood Fire.

The rare alert was first used to warn of tornado conditions. A red flag warning was also issued for most of the state. “Prepare now for rapid fire growth,” it said. A similar “dangerous situation” warning had been issued for the 2025 Palisades Fire in Los Angeles. A federal judge declared a mistrial Friday in the arson case against Jonathan Rinderknecht, the man accused of sparking that fire. The jury said it couldn’t agree on a verdict. While the Cottonwood Fire’s cause was unknown, Cox’s order noted that humans have been the cause of most fires in the state so far this year. Utah has seen 376 wildfires this year, and 273 of those were caused by humans, according to Utah’s wildfire data.

wildfire spreads through poprad woodlands

The governor’s order gives Barnes power to restrict or prohibit fireworks displays in Utah’s cities and towns, instead of leaving those decisions to the communities. With extreme fire conditions persisting, Rocky Mountain Power issued a public safety power shut-off watch/warning for areas of central, southern and eastern Utah through the weekend. Crews were also battling the Iron Fire southwest of Salt Lake City. The flames on Thursday forced the temporary evacuation of Eureka, population 1,000. Red flag warnings, which mean conditions such as low humidity, warm temperatures and strong winds can create an extreme wildfire risk, were in effect Friday and stretched from Idaho to southern Arizona and New Mexico.

The warnings extended into Saturday, with forecasters predicting winds of 25 to 35 miles an hour and very low humidity levels. The worst conditions were expected from northern Arizona into central and southern Utah. Much of Utah already is experiencing severe to extreme drought, while parts of Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico are experiencing severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Tim Brown, a research professor and director of the Western Regional Climate Center, said the potential for extreme fire behavior will remain as long as it’s hot, dry and windy. “I would not be surprised to see a lot of restrictions come out as we get closer to the July Fourth weekend,” he said.

“People really need to be aware of their surroundings if they’re going to be out in the forested campground areas and grassland areas.” Even in Florida, where there have been multiple brush fires, authorities are urging people to skip the personal fireworks and instead leave the pyrotechnics to professionals putting on carefully planned shows. In Utah, federal land managers have closed public lands near the Cottonwood Fire as a precaution, and in New Mexico, forest officials closed campgrounds and trails near a wildfire burning in the Jemez Mountains. Nationally, nearly 3 million acres have burned since the start of the year, pushing the U.S. ahead of the 10-year average. The National Interagency Fire Center said firefighters are making progress on containing fires from Alaska to Florida. 

Source: Utah declares emergency, limits fireworks ahead of July Fourth as crews battle largest U.S. wildfire – CBS Colorado

With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love.
Ephesians 4:2

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Northern Minnesota wildfire prompts evacuations near Burntside Lake

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photo of burning forest

Officials ordered residents to evacuate Monday afternoon as crews work to extinguish a wildfire in northern Minnesota. The U.S. Forest Service says the fire is located in the Superior National Forest northwest of the North Arm of the Burntside Lake area, approximately eight miles northwest of Ely. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office said agencies initially responded to the report of black smoke coming from the north side of Birch Bay on Burntside Lake around 2:56 p.m. Evacuations are in effect in the area of Lindskog Road and the southernmost part of North Arm Road in Morse Township as a precaution, according to the sheriff’s office. On Monday afternoon and evening, fire personnel and aircraft were responding to the fire, which is estimated to be 30 acres in size. The sheriff’s office says the Forest Service will monitor it overnight and firefighting efforts will start again on Tuesday morning. As of Monday night, no structures have been lost as a result of the blaze.

Source: Northern Minnesota wildfire prompts evacuations near Burntside Lake – CBS Minnesota

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
John 3:16

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The tale of a Ford, a nest, and a Robin

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american robin in lush green grass

A Ford dealership in Kansas can’t let a customer take home an already-bought F-250 Super Duty, and the reason is for the birds—quite literallySee, Olathe Ford of Olathe, Kansas, which posted its conundrum to Facebook, is dealing with an unusual circumstance: a robin has decided to make a nest and lay its eggs on the tire of an F-250. Turns out, those enormous tires and mighty wheel gap make a nice spot for a bird to raise its four babies. After noticing the nest, the dealership writes that it learned robins and their active nests are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. In other words, the dealer can’t legally relocate the nest.

Source: Federally Protected Robin’s Nest Delays Ford F-250 Super Duty Sale in Kansas

States That Allow Bible in the Classroom

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Wildfire near Breezy Point grows to 1,600 acres in northern Minnesota, DNR identifies “people of interest”

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fire in forest

A wildfire roaring about 10 miles east of Breezy Point, Minnesota, has grown to over 1,600 acres, officials said in a Tuesday morning update. According to the Minnesota Incident Command System, the Flanders Fire is now nearly 60% contained. Crews have been working since the weekend to contain the flames. The Department of Natural Resources said Tuesday that it has found the origin of the fire and identified “people of interest.” County Road 11, which was closed between Cross Lake and State Highway 6 is now reopened. However officials are asking that the public avoid the general area unless absolutely necessary.  Evacuation orders will be lifted at noon and residents will be permitted to return to their homes.  Roughly 140 crew members have been assessing hazardous trees and tempering hot spots.

The Crow Wing County sheriff’s drone team was also able to launch drones in order to better map the flames from the air. Officials announced Monday evening that the other major wildfire from over the weekend, near Two Harbors, has been completely contained. At least 34 structures were lost in the 356-acre wildfire. Gov. Tim Walz toured the damage on Monday. “These fires have disrupted communities and forced evacuations, but the coordinated response across local, state, and federal partners has made a real difference,” he said.

Source: Wildfire near Breezy Point grows to 1,600 acres in northern Minnesota, DNR identifies “people of interest” – CBS Minnesota

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

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Bain Fire burns over 1,400 acres, injures 4 in Southern California; evacuation orders issued

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fire of forest

A fire that originated in the Santa Ana River bed in Riverside County on Tuesday morning has injured multiple people and prompted evacuations, authorities said. According to Cal Fire, the blaze, dubbed the Bain Fire, started sometime before 11:30 a.m. near Bain Street and Limonite Avenue in the Mira Loma neighborhood of Jurupa Valley. The fire burned at least 250 acres as of 2:15 p.m. and was “burning in heavy fuels with a moderate rate of spread,” Cal Fire said.  As of 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Cal Fire said that the fire had consumed 1,456 acres and that containment was at 25%.

Firefighters also said that some structures had been burned, but that they weren’t able to confirm if they were outbuildings or other primary buildings.  “Air and ground resources will remain on scene overnight, working diligently to build containment lines around the perimeter of the fire. Air resources will also be assigned throughout the evening, dropping water and retardant,” Cal Fire officials said in their final evening update on Tuesday. A total of 100 personnel were assigned to the fire, as well as two helicopters and 22 engines, along with assistance from Cal Fire San Bernardino and San Diego crews and the Ontario and Riverside Fire departments.

Source: Bain Fire burns over 1,400 acres, injures 4 in Southern California; evacuation orders issued – CBS Los Angeles

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Wildfire-hit residents in northern Minnesota can now return home to assess damage

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Residents of Minnesota’s North Shore can now return home to assess damage caused by wildfires, according to the Minnesota Incident Command System. The Stewart Trail Fire near Two Harbors is now fully contained after scorching hundreds of acres, but command system officials day crews are still working in the area.  Mattie Taylor was celebrating her birthday when she received a special gift on Tuesday: an alert that she could come home. “We got to come in yesterday for about three hours, and so we were really hopeful that we would get to come in today,” Taylor said.  Taylor and her husband pulled into their driveway to see burnt ground surrounding their property. “I’m really grateful to be back, and it’s sad to look at all this destruction. But I’m optimistic that in time, it’ll all just be more beautiful,” Taylor said.

Source: Wildfire-hit residents in northern Minnesota can now return home to assess damage – CBS Minnesota

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering.
Colossians 3:12

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Primary Elections; May 19, 2026

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Armored elephant with rider attacking armored rhino amidst medieval soldiers
State Primaries May 19,2026

Today, Tuesday, May 19, 2026, is a major primary election day in six states: Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. These are mostly partisan primaries (Democratic and Republican) to select nominees for the November 3, 2026, general election. Races include U.S. Senate, U.S. House, governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, state legislature, and some local/judicial offices. Some states (Alabama and Georgia) may hold runoffs on June 16 if no candidate gets a majority.

npr.orgPolls are open today (typically 7 a.m.–7/8 p.m. local time, varying by state). Check your state’s election website or apps like Ballotpedia/Vote411 for your exact ballot, polling place, and deadlines (e.g., many states already passed voter registration cutoffs).Here’s a breakdown of the states voting today and the key races + notable candidates (focused on contested statewide and high-profile federal races; full candidate lists are available on state SOS sites or Ballotpedia). Many races feature Trump endorsements, incumbent challenges, or open seats. npr.org +1

Alabama

  • Governor (open seat; term-limited Gov. Kay Ivey, R):
    Republican primary: U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (leading), Ken McFeeters, Will Santivasci.
    Democratic primary: Doug Jones (former U.S. Sen.), Yolanda Flowers (2022 nominee), Will Boyd, Ja’Mel Brown, others. ballotpedia.org
  • U.S. Senate (open; Tuberville running for governor):
    Crowded Republican primary (e.g., U.S. Rep. Barry Moore, Jared Hudson [polling lead], AG Steve Marshall, others). Democratic candidates also running. algop.org
  • Some U.S. House districts (note: primaries in Districts 1, 2, 6, and 7 postponed to August due to redistricting).

Georgia

  • Governor (open seat; term-limited Gov. Brian Kemp, R):
    Republican primary (likely runoff): Lt. Gov. Burt Jones (Trump-backed), billionaire Rick Jackson (self-funding heavily), others including Brad Raffensperger.
    Democratic primary: Keisha Lance Bottoms (former Atlanta mayor), others. x.com
  • U.S. Senate (incumbent Dem. Jon Ossoff):
    Republican primary (to challenge Ossoff; likely runoff; highly competitive): U.S. Reps. Earl “Buddy” Carter and Mike Collins, Derek Dooley (Kemp-backed), others. ballotpedia.org
  • Other: Lt. Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, and State Supreme Court races.

Idaho

  • Governor (incumbent Gov. Brad Little, R, seeking re-election):
    Republican primary: Brad Little, Sean Crystal, Mark Fitzpatrick, Ethan Giles, others.
    Democratic primary: Maxine Durand, Jill Kirkham, Terri Pickens, Chanelle Torrez. ballotpedia.org
  • All 105 state legislative seats up; U.S. House and other statewide offices (Lt. Gov., AG, Secretary of State).

Kentucky

  • U.S. House, District 4 (high-profile Trump test):
    Republican primary: Incumbent Rep. Thomas Massie vs. Ed Gallrein (dairy farmer/ex-Navy SEAL; Trump-endorsed challenger). ballotpedia.org
  • U.S. Senate (open seat; longtime Sen. Mitch McConnell retiring):
    Crowded Democratic primary to try to flip the seat (no Democrat has won it in 25+ years). fox19.com
  • Other congressional and statewide races.

Oregon

  • Governor (incumbent Gov. Tina Kotek, D, facing challenges):
    Democratic primary (closed primary system—only registered Democrats vote).
    Other races and ballot measures (including proposed gas taxes). npr.org

Pennsylvania

  • Multiple competitive U.S. House races (key to House control; several Republican-held toss-ups).
    Notable Democratic primaries (e.g., PA-3, involving debates over Gaza and progressive vs. moderate positioning). npr.org
  • State legislative and other local races (no major gubernatorial/Senate primaries this cycle).

These primaries are drawing national attention for testing party dynamics, Trump’s influence in the GOP, and battleground implications (especially Georgia’s Senate/gubernatorial races). For the most up-to-date candidate lists, results (as they come in), or your specific ballot, visit your state’s Secretary of State website, Ballotpedia.org, or 270toWin.com. Voting info is also at Vote411.org or your county election office.

Source: Grok.com

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
James 1:12

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Santa Rosa Island Fire burns more than 10,000 acres in Channel Islands National Park

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fire at night

A brush fire burning on Santa Rosa Island has burned more than 10,000 acres in the Channel Islands National Park, according to the U.S. National Park Service.  The blaze was reported on Friday afternoon at around 4:20 p.m. between Ford Point and South Point on the southern side of Santa Rosa Island, firefighters said.  Within three hours of ignition, Cal Fire officials, who were assisting the National Park Service with tracking the size of the blaze, said that more than 1,200 acres had burned. On Saturday night, the fire was mapped at 5,690 acres and by 4:31 p.m. Sunday, they said it was 10,0029 acres and 0% contained. 

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. At least 70 firefighters and park rangers were battling the flames, according to NPS officials, who also said that there are no visitors on the island and that flames are being fueled by dense vegetation and strong winds blowing in the area.  The National Weather Service issued a Gale Warning for the area, which is expected to remain in place until at least 3 a.m. on Monday.  Two historic structures, Johnson’s Lee Equipment Shed and Wreck Line Camp Cabin, were destroyed by the fire, which NPS officials said was a “full-suppression human-caused wildfire.” They further noted that the status of the historic South Point Lighthouse is unknown as fire continued to burn nearby on Sunday afternoon.  On Friday, the U.S. Coast Guard officials said that they rescued a 67-year-old man from shore.  Santa Rosa Island is one of five islands located off the Southern California coast in the Pacific Ocean.

Source: Santa Rosa Island Fire burns more than 10,000 acres in Channel Islands National Park – CBS Los Angeles

Good and upright is the LORD; Therefore He teaches sinners in the way. The humble He guides in justice, And the humble He teaches His way.
Psalm 25:8-9

1 Peter 1:6–7

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than…

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1 Timothy 1:13-15

Though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with…

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Psalm 1:1–3

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;  but his delight is in the…

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James 1:14–15

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it…

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Minnesota governor declares peacetime emergency, activates National Guard for wildfire response

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national guard soldiers on duty outdoors

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz on Sunday declared a peacetime emergency and mobilized the National Guard to help battle several major wildfires in the state. In Crow Wing County, the Flanders Fire has grown to an estimated 1,200 acres. As of Sunday morning, it is 0% contained. Another fire, several miles north of Two Harbors, has burned more than 350 acres and is 30% contained. “Unpredictable and fast-moving wildfires are putting Minnesota communities at risk,” Walz said.

“This emergency declaration ensures we can fully mobilize the resources needed to protect lives, support evacuations, and help communities respond and recover. I’m grateful to the firefighters, members of the Minnesota National Guard, and all our first responders working around the clock to keep Minnesotans safe.” Walz says the peacetime emergency will remain in effect “until emergency conditions subside” or on June 7, whichever happens first.

Source: Minnesota governor declares peacetime emergency, activates National Guard for wildfire response – CBS Minnesota

He who covers a transgression seeks love, But he who repeats a matter separates friends.
Proverbs 17:9

Galatians 6:7

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. This reminds us that our choices have consequences. God is not fooled by outward…

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Proverbs 13:20

Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. This reminds us that the people we spend time with have a powerful influence on…

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1 Corinthians 15:33

Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals. We can see here that Paul gives a powerful warning: the people and influences we allow into our lives can shape our…

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Ephesians 4:29

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.…

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Proverbs 18:21

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. This verse reminds us that our words carry tremendous power. That…

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Proverbs 23:7

For he is like one who is inwardly calculating. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, but his heart is not with you. This verse reminds us that our thoughts shape…

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Matthew 6:22

“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, In this verse Jesus teaches that what we…

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Luke 6:45

The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart…

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Wildfires in northern Minnesota spreading to hundreds of acres

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blazing fire in the forest

It’s a desperate fight— on the ground and in the air— against the spread of massive, destructive wildfires in northern Minnesota. The Flanders wildfire near Breezy Point is the largest— 1500 acres and growing, with zero containment.     “You know, it’s an incredible amount of destruction we’ve seen in the last couple of days,” says Jason Metsa, owner of Pelican Lake Resort on Norway Point. “Things are primed for the forests up here to be a tinderbox right now.” Crow Wing County officials have called for some residents to evacuate their homes; others are on standby. Meanwhile, Metsa shared several videos with KSTP, showing flames just off Nett Lake Road in rural Orr, Minnesota.

What began as a grass fire, possibly sparked off by a fallen power line— expanded to ten acres.

“We just ran into the fire, started stomping stuff out and the DNR showed up with some water,” Metsa says. “Several minutes later and we were able to scotch that one out and make sure it didn’t take off.”

“We could see it jump the road and it was climbing the trees, and it was a mile south of us,” recalls Lara Coyer.

She and her husband Ross are owners of the Cabin O’Pines resort, on the south side of Pelican Lake.

“There were forty-foot, fifty-foot balsam and pine trees that were completely engulfed,” Ross Coyer says. “That’s the critical moment. When we saw those flames, we knew it was very serious.”

The couple says they were preparing to evacuate about twenty guests, when firefighters arrived.

“That first truck if they had not turned up and got it when it went to the other side of the road and doused it straight away, we’d be having a very different conversation right now,” Lara Coyer declares.  

At the Stewart Trail fire in the Two Harbors area, there are 108 firefighters on the line.

Aircraft are dropping water and fire retardant, even as about 375 acres remain on fire, with zero containment.

“Team crews of firefighters have been working on putting in hand lines, which remove vegetation down to the soil level so the fire can’t burn across it,” explains Karen Harrison, a spokesperson for the Minnesota Incident Command System.

Source: Wildfires in northern Minnesota spreading to hundreds of acres – KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:1

Christian Persecution June 2 – May 28, 2026

Christian persecution published between May 28 and June 4, 2026. These come primarily from specialized monitoring organizations like International Christian Concern (ICC) and Global Christian Relief. No large-scale violent incidents…

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God Sees Your Unseen Efforts

God has not overlooked a single act of your faithfulness, not one prayer, not one quiet sacrifice. Even when no one else sees, He remembers, and your labor in love…

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Wildfire burns around 100 acres in northeastern Minnesota; evacuations advised

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burning bonfire with sparkles in darkness

Crews are working to put out a wildfire in Lake County that has burned around 100 acres, the Minnesota Incident Command System said Friday night. The blaze, identified by the agency as the Stewart Trail Fire, was detected on Friday afternoon near Lake County Highway 3 and Highway 61, north of Two Harbors, Minnesota. Officials said in a Facebook post at 8:27 p.m. that the fire was 0% contained and that multiple local, state and federal agencies were responding to it.  “

Firefighters are working to establish a containment line around the fire with handlines and heavy equipment, such as dozers, and are expected to remain engaged overnight as conditions permit,” the agency said in the social media post Friday. Evacuations have been advised between where the fire was first detected and Castle Danger Brewery, according to a map created by county officials. Officials said Highway 61 at Highway 2 and West Castle Danger Road in Lake County were closed Friday night due to the blaze, and Betty’s Pies, a popular restaurant in Two Harbors, posted on social media that it closed early on Friday. 

Source: Wildfire burns around 100 acres in northeastern Minnesota; evacuations advised – CBS Minnesota

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.
1 Peter 5:6

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Florida fire map shows live updates on wildfires burning in Broward and Miami-Dade

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vibrant palm leaves in barcelona sunlight

Two wildfires in Broward and Miami-Dade counties are now mostly contained after burning thousands of acres and impacting air quality across parts of South Florida for days, according to the Florida Forest Service and other state and local agencies. The fires are highlighted on Florida’s Active Wildfire Points map, an interactive tool that tracks current wildfires across the state and provides updated information on acreage burned and containment levels. You can check it out here:

Source: Florida fire map shows live updates on wildfires burning in Broward and Miami-Dade – CBS Miami

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28

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Burn ban lifted statewide as two large South Georgia wildfires reach 90% containment

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a woman standing on the grass field

Georgia’s statewide burn ban is over, but the fight against two massive wildfires in South Georgia is not. Gov. Brian Kemp signed an executive order Tuesday lifting the temporary burn ban that had been in place across Georgia counties as part of the state’s wildfire emergency declaration, citing improving weather conditions and decreased fire risk statewide. The burn ban was put in place on April 22, when Kemp declared a state of emergency across 91 counties in South Georgia at high risk for wildfires. The emergency declaration was later scaled back on May 5 to 17 counties in the southern part of the state. Tuesday’s order lifts the burn ban in all remaining counties, though the state of emergency itself remains in effect. Kemp’s order noted that weather conditions have continued to improve and that the emergency response has shifted toward recovery and rebuilding.

Source: Burn ban lifted statewide as two large South Georgia wildfires reach 90% containment – CBS Atlanta

For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Galatians 5:14

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Red flag warning issued in central, northwestern Minnesota Friday afternoon

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aerial view of wildfire in south african grassland

A red flag warning will go into effect Friday afternoon in northwestern and central Minnesota due to extreme fire risk conditions, the state’s Department of Natural Resources says. The warning is issued for 24 counties and will last from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

The impacted counties include: Becker, Benton, Cass, Chippewa, Clay, Crow Wing, Douglas, Grant, Kanabec, Kandiyohi, Lac Qui Parle, Mahnomen, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Norman, Otter Tail, Pope, Sherburne, Stearns, Stevens, Swift, Todd, Wadena and Wilkin.

The DNR says it will not issue or activate burning permits during that time, and will dissuade people from starting campfires. Residents are also encouraged to check any recent burn sites to ensure the fires are completely out. “Fine fuels, such as grass and small twigs, can dry out quickly when the relative humidity is so low and wind pick up,” said Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist. “These fine fuels can easily ignite and start a wildfire that spreads quickly.”

Source: Red flag warning issued in central, northwestern Minnesota Friday afternoon – CBS Minnesota

This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’
Acts 4:11

The tale of a Ford, a nest, and a Robin

A Ford dealership in Kansas can’t let a customer take home an already-bought F-250 Super Duty, and the reason is for the birds—quite literallySee, Olathe Ford of Olathe, Kansas, which posted…

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