STOCKTON, Calif. --
A fast-moving, wind-fed fire gutted several residences just east of Interstate 5 in Stockton on Tuesday.
Authorities said eight houses were involved, with five deemed a total loss, and at least 20 condominimums burned.
The four-alarm blaze took off in the Quail Lakes area just north of March Lane shortly after 10:30 a.m. The flames were knocked down by about 1 p.m.
Hot, dry weather around the region has made fire danger very high. A north wind was gusting at more than 20 mph. Humidity is low and the area where the fire burned has received little rain in recent months.
The blaze was centered along Clear Creek Court, Lost Creek Court, Rock Creek Court and Twin Lakes Court. About 70 firefighters battled the blaze.
Embers were flying nearby, damaging some other homes that sit downwind. Several trees were torched and many fences burned.
Some people stood by watching as their homes went up in flames. One man got out with little more than a swimsuit and towel.
Others appeared to be shell-shocked as they watched firefighters at work. Some people said they managed to save only a few items before the fire closed in.
Fire crews fought the blaze from the nearby neighborhood and from I-5.
Some nearby residents were evacuated to the nearby Quail Lakes Baptist Church at 1904 Quail Lakes Drive.
Janine Brown of the Red Cross said volunteers were at the church helping those in need. Food, clothing and counseling will be available.
I-5 remained open, but traffic was slow in the area.
The blaze appeared to have started along I-5 near Brush Creek Drive. It then headed south toward homes, stretching for about a quarter mile.
