At least 10 dead as fires rage in Northern California

ADS 300px;height:250px

Fifteen wildfires raged across Northern California, with the biggest ones scorching the state's famous wine country, killing at least 10 people, and burning over 1,500 homes and businesses, authorities said.

The fires burned into the night Monday in California's wine country destinations -- Napa, Mendocino and Sonoma counties -- with flames ripping through the lush, picturesque landscape. Here's what we know so far, according to California authorities.

• Ten people have died and the number is expected to grow. Seven deaths were reported in the city of Santa Rosa in Sonoma County, one death in Mendocino County and two in Napa County, according to officials.

• More than 100 people were being treated at Napa- and Sonoma-area hospitals for fire-related injuries or health issues including burns, smoke inhalation and shortness of breath. • Wildfires were burning over 119,032 acres in California, as of Monday night. The fires in Northern California ignited Sunday night and spread with explosive speed because of dry conditions, Cal Fire Director Ken Pimlott said at a Monday news conference. Fueled by strong winds reaching up to 50 mph, firefighters were dealing with "extreme rates of spread and volatile burning conditions," according to Cal Fire. More than 20,000 people evacuated, some with little notice. Seven deaths have been reported in the city, but Sonoma County Sheriff Robert Giordano said, "That number's going to change." Officers were still searching for people to evacuate and rescue, he said, and that "it's just logical" more bodies will be found."

Destroyed landmark buildings in the city included the Fountaingrove Inn, a 124-room hotel; a nearby event center, the Fountaingrove Round Barn; and classrooms at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, the Santa Rosa Press Democrat reported.