logo
Multiple explosions at fireworks facility rocks California community forcing some to evacuate just days before Fourth of July

Multiple explosions at fireworks facility rocks California community forcing some to evacuate just days before Fourth of July

New York Post02-07-2025
Several huge explosions rocked a California fireworks facility just days before the Fourth of July, sparking 'numerous spot fires' that forced locals to evacuate, officials said.
Multiple blasts were reported from the facility in Esparto in Yolo County Tuesday evening, with fireworks detonating amid the flames that engulfed several structures, according to KCRA.
4 Explosions at a fireworks facility rocked a northern California community ahead of Independence Day.
CBS News Sacramento
Advertisement
'All we felt was everything shake,' Esparto resident Bryan Sandoval, who was at his home when he heard the first explosion, told the Sacramento Bee.
Explosions were still seen hours later, with the thick smoke creating an acrid smell throughout the one-mile evacuation zone, The Bee reported.
The initial explosion, which was first reported from a warehouse on the property around 5:50 p.m., caused 'numerous spot fires' in the area,
Advertisement
4 A mandatory evacuation order was issued to residents near the warehouse.
CBS News Sacramento
4 The blasts happened Tuesday night at a facility in rural Yolo County.
CBS News Sacramento
4 'All we felt was everything shake,' said resident Bryan Sandoval.
Hudson Sheats via REUTERS
Advertisement
Esparto Fire Protection District Chief Curtis Lawrence told reporters at a press conference.
That collective blaze, dubbed the Oakdale Fire, had spread to over 78 acres before its progress was halted around 7:30 p.m., officials said.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Beloved Dog Who Went Missing During Texas Floods Found Alive
Beloved Dog Who Went Missing During Texas Floods Found Alive

Newsweek

time17 hours ago

  • Newsweek

Beloved Dog Who Went Missing During Texas Floods Found Alive

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A dog that went missing during the devastating floods in Central Texas earlier this month was found alive with help from a trackable GPS collar. The Context During the Fourth of July holiday weekend, Texas experienced severe flash floods, particularly along the Medina and Guadalupe Rivers. The flooding left a trail of devastation, with over 100 people reported dead. What To Know Erin Doguet was 1,500 miles away in Colorado when she learned that her ranch, which backs up to the Medina River, was flooding and her livestock guardian dog, Ziva, was missing, People reported. Over 200 animals at the ranch had been left in the care of Doguet's sister, Shannon, and a pet sitter, Taelyn. "Ziva took off after a predator or possibly also spooked by the big storm, causing her to end up on the back section of the ranch, which is bordered by the Medina River. As she crossed the river, the flood waters rose swiftly, trapping her," Doguet told the outlet. Doguet had previously fitted Ziva with a Tractive GPS collar. Using the device's app, Doguet helped guide Shannon and Taelyn to Ziva's location. After spending approximately 16 hours in a flooded gully, and with help from an audible sound feature on the collar, Ziva was found and rescued by Shannon and Taelyn. "The app worked flawlessly in guiding us to her location," Doguet told People. A photo shows flooding caused by a flash flood at the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas, on July 5, 2025. A photo shows flooding caused by a flash flood at the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas, on July 5, 2025. Photo by RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP via Getty Images Doguet said Ziva was physically unharmed but exhausted. The dog drank water and rested for over 12 hours upon returning home. Across Central Texas, other survival stories have emerged from the devastation. A dog named Superman was found atop debris after being swept away by the floods. Animal organizations, such as Austin Pets Alive!, have taken in hundreds of displaced pets, mobilizing veterinarians, staff, and volunteers to aid in the emergency response. What People Are Saying Erin Doguet told People: "I burst into tears knowing they found her alive! When the collar kept reporting her same location for hours on the river, I feared she was dead." Suzie Chase, a community affairs officer for Austin Pets Alive!, previously told Newsweek: "The Central Texas community has been incredibly generous, dropping off canned pet food, blankets, towels and crates. They have volunteered to help transport animals from Kerr County and help with the search and rescue efforts. We are so grateful!" What Happens Next Austin Pets Alive! announced in a Facebook post on Wednesday that its flood response efforts are ongoing. "You can help us continue to be there for Central Texas pets and their communities through our disaster relief efforts by donating funds or supplies, volunteering, fostering, or adopting," the organization said. Do you have a story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have any questions about this story? Contact LiveNews@

How Travelers Can Celebrate Indian Independence Day Responsibly?
How Travelers Can Celebrate Indian Independence Day Responsibly?

Time Business News

time2 days ago

  • Time Business News

How Travelers Can Celebrate Indian Independence Day Responsibly?

India's Independence Day is a vibrant national celebration. Tourists of Delhi Darshan packages are often drawn to its color and culture. Excitement fills the air but responsibility must be remembered. The day is not only for fun and photos. Deeper meaning should be understood and respected. Certain behaviors are best avoided during this time. What should be done will be revealed next. Flag hoisting ceremonies are held in many public places. The national anthem is played after the flag is raised. Silence should always be maintained during this special moment. Mobile phones should be kept on silent or switched off. Photos can be taken only if permission is given. Standing still is considered a sign of deep respect. Traditional Indian clothes can be worn by respectful travelers. Outfits like kurta and saree are often appreciated locally. Bright colors are usually preferred during festive national events. Sacred symbols should not be printed on any clothing. Clothes must be kept clean and worn properly always. Offensive designs should be strictly avoided in all cases. Cultural attire should be chosen with care and understanding. Local customs must be respected through thoughtful clothing choices. Sacred places are often visited during Independence Day events. Loud music should not be played in these areas. Dancing and shouting must always be strictly avoided there. Peaceful behavior is expected by everyone in such spaces. Prayers are often being offered by local worshippers nearby. Quiet steps should be taken when walking around temples. Respect must be shown through silence and gentle actions. Sacred places should be treated with calm and care. Parades are enjoyed by many on Independence Day morning. Streets are often filled with people and food stalls. Waste should be thrown only in dustbins provided nearby. Plastic bottles must not be dropped on roads or parks. Clean surroundings are seen as a sign of respect. Littering is considered rude and must be avoided always. Public spaces should be kept neat by all visitors. The Indian flag should always be treated with full respect. It must never be placed on the ground or floor. Torn or damaged flags must be handed to authorities. The flag should not be used as clothing or decoration. Proper handling rules must always be followed by everyone. Folding should be done carefully after each use. The flag must be carried straight and never dragged. Honor should be shown through every small action. Photos of locals should not be taken without permission. Smiles may be given but consent must be asked first. Privacy is valued and must always be respected by travelers. Faces should not be shared online without clear approval. Offense can be caused by unwanted or sudden pictures. Trust can be built by asking in a polite way. Local culture must be honored through careful photo behavior. Respectful actions will always be remembered and appreciated. India's freedom struggle should be studied before the celebration starts. Brave leaders were followed by millions during the long fight. Important events must be remembered with care and respect. Stories of sacrifice should be read by all travelers. Knowledge can be gained through books or short documentaries. Deeper meaning will be felt by understanding the past. The day must not be seen as just festive. Real value is added through learning and reflection. Local markets are often set up during Independence Day events. Handcrafted goods can be bought from nearby small shops during Delhi to Agra bus tour. Traditional items are usually made by skilled local workers. Fair prices should be paid without too much bargaining. Local foods can also be tried from trusted vendors. Support is shown when money is spent thoughtfully there. FAQS What should I do during the flag hoisting ceremony? Stand still in silence and keep your phone on silent or off. Is it okay to take photos during Independence Day events? Only take photos if you have permission especially in public ceremonies. Can I wear traditional Indian clothes as a tourist? Yes but make sure they are respectful and free of sacred symbols. Should I be loud during Independence Day celebrations? No stay quiet especially in sacred or religious places. How should I treat the Indian national flag? Always treat it with full respect and never place it on the ground. Can I take pictures of local people? Only if you ask for and receive their permission first. Why should I learn about India's independence? Understanding the history adds deeper meaning to the celebration. Is littering acceptable during Independence Day events? No always use dustbins and help keep public areas clean. Can I bargain with small shopkeepers during the celebrations? Light bargaining is okay but fair prices show respect and support. Why is it important to follow local customs on this day? Respecting customs avoids offense and shows cultural appreciation. TIME BUSINESS NEWS

The Texas floods washed away their possessions. Volunteers are helping reunite them.
The Texas floods washed away their possessions. Volunteers are helping reunite them.

Yahoo

time7 days ago

  • Yahoo

The Texas floods washed away their possessions. Volunteers are helping reunite them.

Matthew Rafferty was scouring the flooded riverbanks of Texas Hill Country last weekend when he stumbled on a mud-soaked baby quilt. Rafferty, a Virginia firefighter who was deployed to hard-hit Kerr County to help with search and recovery efforts, folded it up and took it back to his hotel. He rinsed it off in the bathtub. He worried the drain might clog because of all the filth, tree roots and rocks that came out. But the tub survived and, after a trip to the laundromat, the quilt was virtually good as new. He posted a photo of the blanket on a Facebook group where people across central Texas are keeping track of things they've recovered from the devastation: waterlogged clothes, stuffed animals, Barbie dolls, marriage licenses, family photo albums. Rafferty eventually connected with the quilt's owner and hand-delivered it to her. 'I'm a father of 3-year-old twin boys. I know if I'd gone through something like these quilts, I'd want it back,' said Rafferty, 34. Rafferty is part of a loose network of first responders, volunteers and good Samaritans who have fanned out across the region to help reunite Texans with the cherished belongings, family heirlooms and everyday household knickknacks that were swept away when floods ripped through Kerr County over Fourth of July weekend, killing more than 130 people and leaving at least 100 missing. This week, NBC News spoke with people in the region about the objects that have turned up in the floods' aftermath — and why they matter. In some cases, seemingly trivial items have taken on far greater emotional significance in the wake of the deadly floods. These are some of their stories. The jewelry Patty Hyatt was inside her mobile home with her 8-year-old grandson and her new beagle puppy early July 4 when her son called. The floodwaters were rising fast and they needed to get to higher ground as soon as possible, he told her. Hyatt, a 67-year-old retired teacher, loaded everyone into her Toyota Tacoma and headed to her son's house, leaving most of her things behind. When she returned to the Old River Road RV Resort the following morning, her 42-foot Forest River home was gone, washed away by the floods. She was heartbroken. 'I just lost stuff, not loved ones,' she said — but most objects in her home were associated with special 'memories' and she was sorry to see them go. That's where Dondi Persyn stepped in. Persyn, 54, posted a photo of some of Hyatt's jewelry on 'FOUND on the Guadalupe River,' a Facebook page she created that she runs with the help of friends. The jewelry had turned up in Center Point, roughly 10 miles from Kerrville. Persyn, who used to own a vintage store, spent a night untangling and cleaning Hyatt's necklaces and bracelets by hand, restoring some of their luster. It turned out that during the flash flooding, Hyatt's orange clamshell necklace and other pieces had been fortuitously held together by a pink string — a bracelet that a student had made for Hyatt more than a decade ago. In that, Hyatt saw rich symbolism. 'The children have always held me together,' Hyatt said. 'They're still holding me together.' The totem pole Ten years ago, Shelby Johnson bought something on a lark from a merchant in San Antonio: a hand-carved and painted totem pole. She named it 'Oonka Oonka.' The totem pole was a highlight of her annual spring break parties, and it stood proudly on the back porch of her boyfriend's house, located on a secluded stretch between Center Point and the town of Comfort. Flash-forward to the chaos of July Fourth: Johnson, 53, and her boyfriend, J.R. Haas, fled to higher ground in their trucks before the floods deluged his house. When they returned, they discovered most of their possessions were destroyed, the house reduced to a 'disgusting, muddy mess.' They found the remains of one of her three cats, a kitten named Fancy, and realized Johnson's Volkswagen Jetta had floated down the road. Apparently, so had Oonka Oonka. The totem pole was found off a riverbank in Comfort by Cory Nicholson, a 40-year-old volunteer searcher and roofing contractor who posted his discovery on the Facebook page. The wooden sculpture had emerged intact and mostly unscathed. 'It was in close to perfect condition,' Nicholson said. Oonka Oonka has been returned to Johnson, who sees her 10-year-old purchase in a different light. 'He's turned into a symbol of survival now,' she said. The camp sign Brandon Hamrick and his wife, Shanndel, volunteered to help search for bodies just a day after raging waters tore through the region. They were combing through a riverbed near their home in Center Point on July 5 when they found a 2-by-2-foot wooden sign in the shape of a heart. It was a remnant of Heart O' the Hills, a summer camp for girls in the flood-battered community of Hunt. Hamrick, 47, wiped mud off the face of the sign. The white paint was torn and chipped in some spots, but he could make out inscriptions from campers — including one apparently dated 1992. 'I could see the names of all these girls on there. I felt joyous, in a way, because I knew I could bring it back to them,' Hamrick said. He believed returning the sign to Heart O' the Hills could bring a small measure of solace to a community mourning the loss of Jane Ragsdale, the camp's co-owner and director, who died in the floods. (The camp was not in session during the disaster.) Brandon and Shanndel, who build custom pickup trucks for a living, found children's toys along the riverbed, too — a tiny doll with long blond hair, a 'Paw Patrol' stuffed animal. They gathered up as much as they could. The Hamricks plan to drive out to the camp to hand-deliver the sign to the surviving owners. The memorial bench Four years ago this month Patricia Jernigan's daughter Shannon died from breast cancer. She was 50. The two women lived together in Texas Hill Country. They enjoyed their lives in the area; Shannon was a material program manager for the supply chain at A7 Defense & Aerospace and in her spare time admired Kerr County's population of white-tailed deer. In honor of Shannon's life, Patricia installed a commemorative bench at Lehmann-Monroe Park, a 27-acre patch of land west of the Guadalupe River. The park was thrashed during the floods, and the bench was apparently swept away to nearby Louise Hays Park. That's where it was discovered by Orlando 'Orly' Ayala, a 38-year-old volunteer searcher. Ayala was digging through piles of debris when he spotted the bench at the base of a cypress tree on the night of July 10. 'I cleaned it off and I realized, 'Wow, this is really something,'' said Ayala. Patricia, 77, said she wants the bench to be reinstalled in Kerrville after the area is cleaned up. The plaque that had been affixed to the bench has gone missing, but she hopes it is found. That way, passersby and animal watchers can read the poem under Shannon's name — five rhyming lines Patricia wrote in her daughter's memory: When it comes to God's critters big or small she wanted to feed them one and all But when it came to deer, such gentle souls she loved to feed them with hands and bowls Forever we will love the heart of this baby girl. This article was originally published on Solve the daily Crossword

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store