At least 21 people have died as a result of the wildfires burning in California, Cal Fire spokeswoman Heather Williams said Wednesday.
More than 600 have been reported missing, authorities said. Spotty cell phone service has severely hampered relatives' ability to connect.
And the situation could worsen, as firefighters keep battling 22 wildfires that have already scorched 170,000 acres.
The Red Cross has a website where residents can mark themselves safe and relatives can search for their loved ones. Sonoma County officials said those needing to report a missing person can call (707) 565-3856.
