Southern California braces for more possible fires

0 Comments | AFP, November, 2007

LOS ANGELES (AFP) — Authorities urged Californians to be on alert all weekend as conditions favorable for more wildfires prompted firefighters to deploy as a precaution, after last week's deadly blazes.

The National Weather Service issued a red alert for fires in the south of the richest and most populous US state from Friday through Sunday.

High winds and low humidity combined with ongoing drought caused conditions much like last week's when 23 fires ravaged the state leaving seven people dead, destroying 2,000 homes and leading to 640,000 evacuations.

Given prevailing dryness and winds, fire commanders sent crews to strategic spots across southern California so they can respond swiftly if new fires flare up.

The US Forest Service was assisting...