Over 10,000 people were ordered to evacuate from a wildfire northwest of Los Angeles as fierce seasonal winds blew flames into ranches and neighborhoods, destroying dozens of homes.

Firefighters were gaining ground Monday on a wildfire that raced across more than 32 square miles north of Los Angeles, damaged or destroyed almost 250 homes, businesses and other structures and continued to "creep and smolder" in steep rugged terrain.

Authorities said firefighters battled fierce, howling winds and rescued people as a fast-moving Southern California wildfire exploded in size.

New Jersey’s governor declared a drought warning Wednesday, and authorities revealed they’ve charged a youth with starting one of many wildfires that has plagued the state in recent

New Jersey has declared a drought warning as dry conditions continue, asking residents to conserve water voluntarily.

The actions came as conditions in some northeast states are the driest they've been in nearly 120 years as numerous wildfires continue to burn in places that haven't seen significant rain since August.