Wildfires sweep state

Published 8:29 pm Saturday, February 19, 2011

Local and state officials respond to wildfires throughout Virginia

RICHMOND–More than 100 wildfires are burning in Virginia, state officials said Saturday.

Firefighters in at least 50 localities have been battling outdoor fires for much of the day, supported, in many cases, by neighboring communities. The Virginia Department of Forestry was working two significant fires in Rockingham and Warren counties.  Also, the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service were working fires in western Virginia.

Gov. Bob McDonnell received briefings throughout the day and was closely monitoring the situation along with agency heads and cabinet secretaries, officials said.

Fires have temporarily closed several roads, including Interstate 64 in New Kent County and I-95 ramps in Prince William County.  The Virginia Department of Transportation and Virginia State Police have been handling traffic control and detours.  Motorists are advised to avoid using Route 60.  Routes 5, 10 and 460 are alternate routes.

Residents in some communities were evacuated when their homes were threatened.  An estimated 100 residents in Louisa County have been evacuated, and a temporary shelter was opened there.

Sustained winds of 25 mph and gusts of up to 45 mph contributed to the outbreak of wildfires.