Yosemite fire: Crews bracing for strong winds

FRESNO, Calif. (KABC) -- Winds are expected to hinder efforts from firefighters who are on the scene of a wildfire burning near Yosemite National Park Sunday.

The blaze dubbed the Rim Fire which began last Saturday grew more than 7 square miles overnight. As of Sunday morning, the 208-square-mile blaze was 7 percent contained .

The fire has threatened more than 4,500 homes as it burns on the northwest edge of the park. Officials said crews were working to keep the fire from encroaching more into the park.

Winds were expected to reach up to 26 mph. Firefighters expected the winds to fuel the fire and continue its growth.

Yosemite crews are cleaning brush and setting sprinklers in an effort to protect two groves of giant sequoias that are threatened by the fire. The iconic trees can resist fire, but park officials say dry conditions and heavy brush are forcing them to take extra precautions.

San Francisco's water and power supply is also being threatened. Gov. Jerry Brown on Friday declared a state of emergency because of the threats.

Los Angeles County has sent more than 70 firefighters to help put out the fire.

The fire is one of the biggest in California history. The cause remains under investigation.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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