Fire crews were making progress, but flames continued to "creep and smolder" in Ventura, California. And winds could kick up again.

Some 10,000 people remained under evacuation orders Friday morning as the fire continued to threaten more structures.

Authorities said firefighters battled fierce, howling winds and rescued people as a fast-moving Southern California wildfire exploded in size.

More small wildfires have broken out across the northeastern U.S. in a series of blazes officials are blaming on very dry conditions throughout the region.

The actions came as conditions in some northeast states are the driest they've been in nearly 120 years as numerous wildfires continue to burn in places that haven't seen significant rain since August.

New Jersey’s governor declared a drought warning Wednesday, and authorities revealed they’ve charged a youth with starting one of many wildfires that has plagued the state in recent