A Red Cross worker from New York made the brave trek to California to lend a helping hand to fire victims.
Michael Devulpillieres is currently stationed in Butte County, about 30 minutes south of the devastation in Paradise.
Devulpillieres spent his 11-year career as a communications manager, representing the Lower Hudson Valley.
He says he’s seen house fires and hurricanes, but nothing compared to the current raging inferno.
“Smoke is everywhere. You can smell it, feel it, taste it, and as you get closer to where the fire's burning, it becomes even more intense,” he says.
Devulpillieres says he plans on staying in the region for another week, alerting the public on where people can find help.
The Red Cross is also working with local authorities to provide shelter to hundreds of residents who have fled their homes in moments only to leave nothing behind.
The American Red Cross says the best way to help is by making an online monetary donation to the American Red Cross.
Donations can also be made by texting CA Wildfires to 90999.