USA: Thousands of people in California flee forest fire

In California Thousands of people have been killed fleeing a rapidly growing wildfire. The flames burned uncontrollably over an area of ​​about 80 square kilometers, according to Calfire, the US state’s fire protection authority.

According to official information, the flames are threatening more than 35,000 buildings, including homes and businesses. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for the affected region over the weekend. This will enable money and aid to be provided more quickly.

As the Los Angeles Times reported that flight operations were also partially disrupted over the weekend. Roads were closed and schools in the region will remain closed until at least Monday. Calfire reported three injuries, without providing further details. US media reports that they are firefighters.

Cause of fire unclear

It is not yet known what caused the fire. It broke out on Thursday in San Bernardino County, northeast of Los Angeles. According to official information, hundreds of firefighters and around 1,800 emergency personnel are on duty. The fire is being fought on the ground and from the air.

The region has been extremely hot in recent days. There was also a large fire in northern California before the weekend, and other parts of the western US state are currently burning. California has been hit by forest fires repeatedly this summer. Weather reports predict little hope of showers in the coming hours.

In light of the global climate crisis, experts have long warned that such fires are becoming more massive and destructive. California is one of the regions that appears to be most affected.