A huge wildfire near Yosemite National Park swelled to more than 70,000 acres overnight as flames destroyed at least 45 homes and forced two towns to evacuate. The one-story facility is the only hospital in Mariposa County and the only one with an emergency department. Loya said fire helicopters were constantly making water drops, defending not only the hospital but the rest of Mariposa County as well. The park has remained open as the firefight continues near Mariposa. 11:55 a.m.: This article was updated with comments from Mariposa residents.

Source: Los Angeles Times July 20, 2017 15:12 UTC