Nasa images show wildfire damage to island dubbed ‘Galapagos of California'
The satellite visuals reveal vast burn scars after blaze tore through rare ecosystems on Santa Rosa Island
www.theguardian.comfire on Santa Rosa Island within Channel Islands burned thousands of acres so far, becoming California's largest wildfire of the year. Containment efforts are advancing as of late May, as crews working to suppress the fire, while structures including two historic buildings were destroyed. Access to the island was restricted to protect unique ecosystems. The blaze originated when a mariner’s distress flare was fired, according to Coast Guard and National Park Service reports. Containment has improved via coordinated multi-agency efforts. There have been no reported civilian or firefighter casualties. Efforts to suppress and repair continue with emphasis on the island’s unique ecosystems.