Strong Santa Ana winds intensify, giving more fuel to numerous fires burning out of control in SoCal

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Forty-eight hours in and Central Valley firefighters remain on the ground working to put out the growing Thomas Fire.

"We have at least two engines from Fresno, a water tender, some Battalion Chiefs, an additional OES engine from Fresno City, people form Sanger, from Clovis, from all of the surrounding agencies

Cpt. Koby Johns with Fresno Fire arrived in Ventura County Wednesday morning.

He says strong winds are still presenting challenges and hampering firefighting efforts for crews trying to set control lines.

"Still a very active fire as of this morning zero percent containment. We've seen that number jump up a little bit with today's efforts but we are still going to see some fire growth," said Cpt. Johns.

While families return home to the devastation, at least 10 volunteers from the Central Valley, American Red Cross chapter are also stepping in to support them.

"They are working shelters to make sure our residents are safe and comfortable," said Jessica Piffero.

Shanel Phillippe knows how important that is--she lost her home to the fire.

"My landlord told me there was nothing but a chimney," said Piffero.

But despite her loss, she and a group of friends dropped off nearly $500 in goods like tissue, water and food bars at the Red Cross' Operation Center.

"I have money. I haven't lost everything, but there is a lot of people that don't have anybody so helping them in a time of need is a good way to go."

One way to make an impact, especially during a period when firefighters say the situation could get worse.