Since returning from my trip to Europe, Las Vegas has been hit with a devastating wildfire on Mount Charleston, about 45 minutes out of town. This fire started July 2nd from a lighting strike, and with our dense and dry climate the fire caught the winds and spread extremely quickly. As of today, the Carpenter 1 fire has burned over 14,000 acres and the entire mountain has been evacuated, even traffic stopped from going into the Scenic Route at Red Rock Canyon. With over 800 firefighting personel fighting this battle, it is only 10% contained. Today I went to the overlook in Red Rock Canyon and spent about an hour photographing the fire and smoke which has risen high into the sky. The smoke and flames are visible from miles around and parts of Las Vegas are covered in darkness even though it is midday. I pray for the those fighting this beast and for those who have been evacuated and who's homes are in the path of destruction.
