As thousands of firefighters battled to gain control of the raging Oak Fire early Tuesday, the devastation left behind by the flames has left many fire victims numb as they come to terms with the loss of homes and cherished memories.
"It's just tough, but it's still amazing to see what survived," Andrea's voice dropping off as emotions overwhelm her as she looks at the wreckage of her home."
"My family home has burnt to the ground," he wrote."My mom, Jane Smith only had enough time to load her horses and get out. My father Wes Smith a Mariposa Sheriff officer was out working the fire and was unable to save his home." After minimal growth Monday and overnight, the blaze had consumed more than 28 square miles of forest land. It's 26% contained.
Fire officials also updated the damage toll from the fire, confirming that at least 21 homes and 34 other structures have been destroyed. Thousands of residents remain under evacuation orders, though some of those orders were reduced to fire advisements.
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