MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday advised Filipinos in the path of a dangerous wildfire in Northern California in the United States to follow local advisories after authorities ordered residents to evacuate.
The agency told reporters Wednesday it is “closely monitoring” the situation of the more than 1,700 Filipinos in Lake County, located 178 kilometers from the state capital, Sacramento.
The fire burning in the region has consumed 11,500 acres of land – roughly 4,654 hectares – and destroyed dozens of buildings, with 600 more being threatened by the flames.
On Tuesday, California Governor Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency in the affected area.
While no injuries or casualties were reported, the DFA, through Assistant Secretary Elmer Cato, echoed the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco’s call on Filipinos to “heed evacuation orders.”
Consul General Bensurto said the Consulate has been in touch with authorities in Lake County, adding that no Filipino has so far been reported affected by the fire.
Filipino nationals in the region, who may require assistance are advised to get in touch with the Consulate. (Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA)
