Thousands flee as California fires kill 10

RAGING wildfires in California’s wine country have claimed at least 10 lives and forced thousands to flee, authorities said on Monday.

Fanned by winds surpassing 80km/h, the blazes have forced more than 20 000 people to evacuate in the country’s heaviest populated state since having flared up on Sunday night.

California’s fire service said about 30 000ha had been ravaged by the major infernos.

“The Sheriff’s Office confirms seven fire-related deaths from the Sonoma Company fires. Our condolences to their friends and families,” tweeted the sheriff of Sonoma County.

At least 1 500 buildings were destroyed as the state declared an emergency in three counties ravaged by intense fires, mostly in its famous wine-producing regions.

Fourteen major fires are burning in total. The counties are north of San Francisco Bay.

A reporter in the Santa Rosa area witnessed multiple explosions from gas lines or gas tanks, in addition to charred out homes and a winery.

About 410 firefighters are working on blazes in Mendocino; a sheriff’s spokesman told CBS new network that multiple fatalities were expected.

Another fire in Anaheim has surged to char 800ha. Dozens of shelters were opened in schools and churches. — AFP