Fires continue to rage for a fourth day in Southern California. The flames have engulfed 585 square miles and forced upwards of half a million people from their homes. More than 1,000 buildings have been destroyed so far. At least five people have been killed and more than three dozen injured. Ten thousand evacuees have taken refuge at the emergency shelter at San Diego’s pro football stadium.

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger: “I think that the coordination between the locals, the state and the federal government is very important. This is a really fast moving fire, and it has really been disastrous for so many people, and we want to make sure there’s enough manpower and enough equipment and resources available for the firefighters.”

Today’s forecast calls for higher winds and soaring temperatures for the affected areas. President Bush has declared a federal emergency ahead of a visit to the region tomorrow.