PHELAN, CALIF.—Crews made huge gains against a massive wildfire in Southern California as residents anxiously awaited word that they can return to mountain communities where at least 96 homes were destroyed. The blaze was 68 per cent contained on Saturday and firefighters were transitioning to mop-up phase, according to fire spokesman Brad Pitassi. We’re checking for additional hot spots that could potentially jump the line,” said Pitassi, adding that officials expect more progress and more residents returning home throughout the weekend. Pitassi estimated that about 7,000 people remained under mandatory evacuation orders, mostly around the areas of Wrightwood and Lytle Creek. A preliminary assessment found 96 homes and 213 outbuildings were destroyed by the blaze, most of them in its first fierce days on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Source: thestar August 20, 2016 17:37 UTC