The wildfires that have now killed 20 at least people and destroyed more than 2,000 homes are being described as the “worst and costliest disasters in the states’ history”.
The death toll reached 20 when a firefighter was killed trying to save a house near Wynola, San Diego County, and two other bodies were found nearby. Authorities are warning that the death toll could rise higher. Latest reports suggest the worst fires are currently in the San Bernadino Mountains, near Los Angeles, where 200-feet-high flames have been seen.
One town being threatened is Lake Arrowhead, an exclusive lakeside resort that has reportedly been home to Hollywood stars since the 1920s. Famous residents in the 80,000-strong town include Patrick Swayze, Roseanne Barr and Priscilla Presley. The town was deserted last night, according to reports, following the evacuation of its residents. The fires have now reportedly destroyed 620,000 acres of land.
