California Gov. Jerry Brown (D) has declared a state of emergency as wildfires blaze in 15 counties across the Golden State. "California's severe drought and extreme weather have turned much of the state into a tinderbox," Brown said in a Friday statement. "Our courageous firefighters are on the front lines and we'll do everything we can to help them." The governor's proclamation directs all state agencies to assist with emergency relief, and activates the state's National Guard to aid with disaster response.