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California Weather Helps Control Massive Wildfire


The weather in the western U.S. state of California has helped firefighters gain greater control of a massive wildfire that is burning near the populous city of Santa Barbara.

Fire officials said the winds were calmer overnight and a dense fog rolled in Saturday morning helping firefighters gain control of 30 percent of the blaze, compared to 10 percent on Friday.

Authorities said the fire has burned 35 square kilometers and has damaged 80 homes in the area known for its large mansions and scenic ocean views.

Before now, strong overnight winds and dry conditions had been making it difficult to keep the blaze from spreading.

The fire, which began on May 5, has forced the evacuation of more than 30,000.

More than 4,200 personnel are battling the wildfire.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.

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