Santa Cruz fire continues to threaten homes

A fire that started near Bonny Doon in the Santa Cruz Mountains, 70 miles south of San Francisco Wednesday continues to threaten homes.

The fire, which was heading towards Davenport early Thursday, changed direction and headed back towards Bonny Doon, causing authorities to call for the evacuation of 2,200 Swanton area and Bonny Doon residents.

2000 firefighters, six air tankers and eight helicopters from as far afield as Santa Barbara are in the area trying to bring the blaze under control, but strong winds and difficult terrain has meant that as of 4pm local time Thursday no part of the blaze was under control. More fire fighters from across California are currently on their way to area.

At the time of writing, the main fire front is believed to be around 4 miles from Bonny Doon and closing in. More when we have it.

(img: Alaniaboys on Flickr)