THOUSANDS FLEE FIRES NEAR YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

A wildfire that drove thousands from their homes near California’s Yosemite National Park grew more ferocious Wednesday, roaring through rugged terrain after doubling in size overnight and threatening 1,500 homes.

The fire has burned at least 70 square miles since Sunday, destroying eight buildings, damaging power, water, and communication infrastructure and forcing authorities to close highways near the park.

More than 2,000 people fled the blaze in the town of Mariposa, and Gov. Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency for Mariposa County.

JUSTIN SULLIVAN, GETTY IMAGES The Detwiler Fire burning west of Yosemite National Park has destroyed at least eight structures.