California fires: Oprah Winfrey 'praying' as families flee wildfire terror
TALK show host Oprah Winfrey and actor Rob Lowe were among celebrities fleeing as one of the biggest fires in California’s history threatened their homes.
California wildfire Thomas threatens Santa Barbara
The blaze is sweeping the wealthy Montecito area of Santa Barbara, aided by gusts of up to 60mph.
Lowe, 53, tweeted: “Praying for my town. Fires closing in. Firefighters making brave stands. Could go either way. Packing to evacuate now.”
Oprah, 63, added: “Still praying for our little town. Winds picked up this morning creating a perfect storm of bad for firefighters.”
Blaze nearing Santa Barbara at the weekend (L), Oprah Winfrey (R)
Praying for my town
Singer Katy Perry, 33, said: “Woke up to wish my mum a happy 70th birthday today to find my brother evacuating them. Praying for the firefighters and first responders.”
Fire spokesman Jude Olivas said the blaze was “right above the homes” of those living in the wealthy enclave and 400 fire engines had been sent to protect their properties.
The HUGE Thomas Fire rages across Southern California
Rob Lowe says he is praying for his town
The fire has burned down more than 700 homes and killed a firefighter.
An area of 267,500 acres has been destroyed since the blaze broke out on December 4.