The governor of California is telling residents to prepare for more spectacular wildfires like the Rocky Fire that’s burned over 65,000 acres in three counties.

“Fasten your seat belts,” Governor Brown said, noting that it’s been four years since California has been in drought conditions.  He called the fires “a real wake-up call” for Californians.

“These are very difficult times and a real tragedy for the families,” he said.

The worst of the fires, the Rocky Fire, has now burned 69,600 acres as of Thursday afternoon.  Firefighters say the blaze is 40% contained but also admitted that the fires have now claimed 43 homes and 53 outbuildings, almost double the total from two days ago.

Cal Fire officials are also closely watching the skies as “dry” thunderstorms are moving into the area.  A “dry” thunderstorm is one that has very little actual rainfall but dangerous lightning that could spark a new fire.

“The gusty and erratic winds from these thunderstorms could also affect the fire spread of the remaining active fires,” Cal Fire said.

Across the United States, 118 wildfires are currently burning as of Thursday morning consuming around 2,757 square miles of land.  August is considered the high point of the annual wildfire season and most wildfires have been in Alaska according to ABC.