Intense wildfires continue to plague crews and residents in California and New Mexico and officials have ordered evacuations and issued health warnings.

Wildfires burn near Los Angeles
Wildfires burn near Los Angeles (KCBS TV)
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Officials say five residences were destroyed north of Los Angeles where erratic winds prompted evacuation orders for about 1,000 homes.

In New Mexico, officials warned of unhealthy air quality from an unchecked fire in the Santa Fe National Forest. That fire has grown to nearly 10 square miles by last night, making it apparently the largest of several wildfires burning in the West.

A blanket of blanket of haze moved into the city of Santa Fe and also covered the Gallinas Canyon and Las Vegas, N.M. That prompted warnings of unhealthy air quality today. Health officials urge people to limit outdoor activity.

Forecasters said some rain was possible in both New Mexico fire areas today, as well as gusty winds.


(Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved)

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