A perilous heat wave has gripped the state of California, exacerbating the wildfire situation with 10 new fires erupting on the Fourth of July holiday alone. Among them, the French fire near Mariposa, just northwest of Yosemite National Park, has caused significant concern for local authorities.

Igniting near French Camp Road at Highway 49 on Thursday evening, the fire rapidly expanded to cover more than 400 acres due to the combination of scorching temperatures and gusty winds. By Friday morning, the blaze had scorched an alarming 842 acres, while it continued to march southeast towards Mariposa. As a result, State Route 140, which leads to Yosemite National Park, had to be closed down, causing disruption for travelers.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reported that only 5% of the fire had been contained as of Friday, making it a formidable challenge for firefighters. The gravity of the situation prompted evacuation orders for approximately 200 homes, affecting over 300 individuals in Mariposa. Efforts to safeguard the community are underway, with dozers and hand crews constructing a fire line around the eastern side of Mariposa.

Adding to the urgency, the National Weather Service predicted Mariposa would experience scorching temperatures, with Friday seeing a high of 107 degrees, followed by 110 degrees on Saturday and 109 degrees on Sunday. Furthermore, the lack of substantial overnight temperature drops, which are expected to remain in the 70s, reduces moisture in the landscape, making the terrain highly susceptible to catch fire.

This rash of wildfires occurring amidst extreme heat is a testament to the state's vulnerability despite a wet winter. Apart from the French fire, nine other fires ignited on Thursday, demonstrating the severity of the wildfire threat. Currently, the largest active blaze in California is the Basin fire in Fresno County, which has engulfed 14,015 acres and is 46% contained. Additionally, the Thompson fire in Butte County, which was posing a threat to Oroville, has reached 3,789 acres and is also 46% contained.

While northern California grapples with these wildfires, the southern part of the state is not immune to fire risks. The National Weather Service issued cautionary statements that elevated fire conditions would persist through the following week, particularly along the Antelope Valley and Ventura and Santa Barbara county foothills, where gusty winds have the potential to fan flames.

Inland areas have suffered record-breaking heat as well, with Palmdale Airport reaching a sweltering 110 degrees, surpassing the previous daily record set in 1973. The Inland Empire is also bracing for extreme heat, with triple-digit temperatures anticipated over the weekend.

Those seeking relief at the beach must exercise caution, as strong ocean currents are predicted to generate waves ranging from 3 to 6 feet. Additionally, rip currents and powerful shorebreaks add to the list of potential dangers for beachgoers.

As the dangerous heat wave continues to scorch California, firefighters will remain on high alert, battling these relentless blazes in an effort to protect lives and property. The state is reminded once again of the urgency to prioritize fire safety measures and to be vigilant in the face of escalating fire risks.

(Note: Unless otherwise specified, all information in this article is derived from the provided context.