"The blaze is one of more than 680 wildfires in the state this year — about 200 more than average."

"A fortuitous turn of weather Sunday aided the battle against a Southern California wildfire that has driven 2,000 people from their homes, but the severity of the spring blaze did not bode well for the region's coming wildfire season.

Cooler temperatures, damp air and occasional showers rolled in off the Pacific Ocean on Sunday, supporting firefighters pitted against the 44-square-mile blaze at the western end of the Santa Monica Mountains, Ventura County Fire Capt. Dan Horton said.

The so-called Springs Fire, which began Thursday amid a hot, dry spell, was 60% contained Sunday, and Horton said full containment is expected late Monday."

Laura Petrecca and John Bacon report for USA TODAY May 5, 2013. [2]