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California wildfires breaking out across the state

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (CBS, KYMA/KECY) - As the weather continues to heat up in California, wildfires are already beginning to break out across the state.

Two of the fires that took place in the Sacramento Valley this weekend, one in South Sacramento and one in Yuba County.

The fireline dangerously close to homes in Elk Grove, a South Sacramento neighborhood.

"I hope it doesn’t get windy and cross the street," said Heather Apel, an Elk Grove resident.

From small grass fire to 3.5 acre fire

Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (Sac Metro Fire) drone pictures show just how close the flames came to homes. In a matter of minutes, what started as a small grass fire quickly grew to 3.5 acres.

Sac Metro Fire also reports they have responded to multiple grass fires recently.

The rain alleviated california’s drought while sparking new growth. But it also brought a misconception.

"We do have a significant amount of fuel moisture in the Sierras, but in the Valley, it’s very dry right now," said Captain Parker Wilbourn of Sac Metro Fire.

And it’s only going to get drier, says the Fire Department. As for new growth, it’s expected to add another challenge.

"What that means is the grass itself is much thicker, much denser and prime to burn," Wilbourn added.

Yuba County fire

Last Thursday, a wildfire quickly spread up a ridge near Smartsville in Yuba County.

It forced temporary evacuations while burning roughly 100 acres. Much like then, Sunday’s fire also dealt with winds.

Both times, firefighters narrowly avoided devastation.

"Just blessed it was contained," Apel expressed.

Article Topic Follows: California News

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Dillon Fuhrman

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