Early morning news reports have identified three fires, each covering roughly 70,000 acres, that have been raging in Riverside and San Diego counties. The news only heightens the hillside dwellers' sense of apprehension. Scenes of the wind-driven blazes and massive evacuations are reminders of the high fire dangers of the season. News breaks quickly that another fire has erupted just five miles to the east in Calabasas from downed power lines, and smoke plumes soon become visible. Phone lines jam as friends and relatives call in to warn loved ones of the danger.
Police begin their drive through the neighborhood ordering immediate evacuations.
As residents race to pack a few possessions, sirens whine in the distance as Los Angeles County Fire Department units draw near. Firemen drag hoses from their trucks, calling for residents to evacuate and stand by their engines. Already, it's too late to evacuate by car-flames have blocked the only road out. Blinding smoke fills the air, and trees explode as the heat from the fire boils away water and sap. Breathing becomes difficult because of the hot, choking smoke.