Today, 8,000 firefighters are battling 18 large wildfires in California, including  several that are on the National Forest and nearing full containment. Overnight cooler temperatures were experienced across California, but with the cool down came dry thunderstorms resulting in lightning sparked wildfires. While conditions will begin to cool down today, they will still be very warm with low afternoon humidity levels.

With the high level of fire activity CAL FIRE did request assistance from the California National Guard. Yesterday the Guard mobilized nine of its helicopters to help battle the current wildfires. This activation will provide additional equipment and personnel to augment CAL FIRE forces during the high level of fire activity California is experiencing across the state.

This weekend many people will choose to enjoy the slightly cooler weather and enjoy the outdoors. CAL FIRE cautions all Californians and visitors to be extra cautious as it doesn’t take much to spark a wildfire. One Less Spark, means One Less Wildfire.