Supervisors have declared an emergency due to the Erskine Fire, which has burned nearly 73 miles and destroyed 257 homes.

District 1 Supervisor Mick Gleason said during Tuesday’s meeting that the head of California’s Office of Emergency Services has assured him of their full support, along with Congressman Kevin McCarthy. The cost of fighting the Erskine Fire stands at more than $15 Million.

Kern County Fire Chief Brian Marshall told Supervisors the first firefighters immediately called for backup when they saw what they were facing. Marshall says the flames destroyed everything in their path, fueled by tinder-dry vegetation and 35mph winds.

Ready Kern reverse 9-1-1 calls also went out. The fire is now 60% contained.

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