Online Resources for Tracking California Fires

With more than a million people displaced by California's wildfires, many are on edge as they worry over the safety of their friends and families while feeling helpless from not knowing how close the fires really are to their loved ones' homes. You can stay glued to TV coverage, which is often hours behind, or you can turn to these sites on the web, many of which rely on the very people affected by the fires to offer updates on their progress.

Try these sites for an unvarnished and up-to-the-minute look at the situation:

• Flickr - Search for "California fire" and sort by "most recent" to see the absolute latest shots from amateur photographers. Today there are numerous shots of the refugees as well as the thick haze throughout Southern California.
• YouTube - Try the same search as Flickr, but with video. Somewhat less timely, though.
• LA Times Wildfire Map - This mashup shows current and extinguished blazes throughout the area, overlaid on a map of the region. Updated in real time to the extent information is available.
• Wikipedia - Offers up-to-the-minute coverage of the fires along with detailed infomation on property damage, injuries, and containment of various blazes. Don't miss the links to additional stories online at the bottom of the page.
• State of California Official Fire Report - Includes information galore, maps of fires, and evacuation updates and resources.
• CBS 8 Fire Blog - Includes breaking news about containment and evacuation areas and even a list of addresses of destroyed (and saved) homes. Also includes relief and donation information.