A northern California wildfire raging in the foothills of the Cascade range has claimed three lives, officials said on Monday, as a separate blaze prompted mass evacuations and spread turmoil to the famed wine-producing regions of Napa and Sonoma counties.

US: Northern California wildfires kill 3, force evacuation of thousands

A wind-driven wildfire erupted on Sunday (September 27) in the heart of northern California's Napa Valley wine country and spread across more than 1,000 acres (404 hectares), forcing the evacuation of several hundreds homes and a hospital, authorities said.

California wine country wildfire forces rapid evacuation

A raging pandemic along side apparent changes in climate may sound like a deadly combo, but it’s our contemporary reality.

While wildfires ravaged parts of Oregon, California, and Washington in the United States, its effects are now being felt across the pond. The wildfires in the US have worsened air quality and evacuated thousands of people.

Europe eclipsed

According to the World Meteorological Organization, the impact of these fires is now being felt across the Atlantic Ocean, ranging as far as Finland.&nbsp;

On Monday, the organisation shared a map showing particulate matter from the wildfires eclipsing the southern areas of Norway, Sweden, and Finland, along with some parts of the United Kingdom.

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The smoke from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CaliforniaFires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CaliforniaFires</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OregonFires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OregonFires</a> has crossed the Atlantic and reached <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Finland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Finland</a>. 
Aerosol optical depth from <a href="https://twitter.com/CopernicusECMWF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CopernicusECMWF</a> Atmosphere Monitoring Service<a href="https://t.co/JP0iRGp5aV">https://t.co/JP0iRGp5aV</a> <a href="https://t.co/esV3fATKUC">pic.twitter.com/esV3fATKUC</a>
— World Meteorological Organization (@WMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WMO/status/1307990230696431617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The fires had eclipsed the United States last week, hazing cities, and making air quality unfit for humans.

Even though the particulate matter may not be felt by people on the ground, its gradual impact on the air quality will be evident.

NASA had shown projections last week about particulate matter from the wildfire smoke affecting almost every state in the US.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/firefighters-in-us-northwest-aided-by-weather-as-winds-drive-california-blaze-328772" hreflang="en">Firefighters in US northwest aided by weather, as winds drive California blaze</a>

San Francisco, Seattle, and Portland witnessed improvement in air quality in recent days, with weather patterns flushing the wildfire smoke to the east.&nbsp;

Earlier, millions were exposed to unhealthy air after fires fuelled by lightning wreaked havoc in August. The damage was doubled due to the fires that followed in Washington and Oregon.&nbsp;

California’s “Bobcat Fire” is currently the most active fire scene in the US. It has toasted 165 square miles. This makes it one the largest fires ever in Los Angeles County.

Just this year alone, California has witnessed some of its largest wildfires ever!

A raging pandemic along side apparent changes in climate may sound like a deadly combo, but it’s our contemporary reality. While wildfires ravaged parts of Oregon, California, and Washington in the United States, its effects are now being felt across the pond.

A raging pandemic along side apparent changes in climate may sound like a deadly combo, but it’s our contemporary reality. While wildfires ravaged parts of Oregon, California, and Washington in the United States, its effects are now being felt across the pond. The wildfires in the US have worsened air quality and evacuated thousands of people. Europe eclipsed According to the World Meteorological Organization, the impact of these fires is now being felt across the Atlantic Ocean, ranging as far as Finland. On Monday, the organisation shared a map showing particulate matter from the wildfires eclipsing the southern areas of Norway, Sweden, and Finland, along with some parts of the United Kingdom. The smoke from the #CaliforniaFires #OregonFires has crossed the Atlantic and reached #Finland. Aerosol optical depth from @CopernicusECMWF Atmosphere Monitoring Servicehttps://t.co/JP0iRGp5aV pic.twitter.com/esV3fATKUC — World Meteorological Organization (@WMO) September 21, 2020 × The fires had eclipsed the United States last week, hazing cities, and making air quality unfit for humans. Even though the particulate matter may not be felt by people on the ground, its gradual impact on the air quality will be evident. NASA had shown projections last week about particulate matter from the wildfire smoke affecting almost every state in the US. Also read: Firefighters in US northwest aided by weather, as winds drive California blaze San Francisco, Seattle, and Portland witnessed improvement in air quality in recent days, with weather patterns flushing the wildfire smoke to the east. Earlier, millions were exposed to unhealthy air after fires fuelled by lightning wreaked havoc in August. The damage was doubled due to the fires that followed in Washington and Oregon. California’s “Bobcat Fire” is currently the most active fire scene in the US. It has toasted 165 square miles. This makes it one the largest fires ever in Los Angeles County. Just this year alone, California has witnessed some of its largest wildfires ever!

Wildfire smoke from US crosses the Atlantic Ocean; seen in parts of Finland, UK

Wildfires have been polluting the environment for the past few weeks across the state of California — of which some were man-made and some started due to the high temperatures and lightning storms.

Video: Wildfires burn the Western U.S.

Wildfires have always been a part of life on the West Coast, in particular, where urban areas and forests closely abut each other and the climate inland is arid.

According to experts Climate Change is responsible for wildfires in US; Know the Science behind it

As deadly wildfires rage across the U.S. West, millions of people have been left struggling with some of the world's worst air pollution. Enormous plumes of ash and smoke have spread from the region, where nearly 5 million acres were ablaze on Wednesday (September 15), compounding the public health crisis of the coronavirus pandemic.

Headaches and hospital visits as wildfire smoke blankets Western United States

Thousands of evacuees displaced by deadly wildfires in Oregon settled into the second week of life in shelters and car camping on Tuesday as fire crews battled on, and search teams scoured the ruins of incinerated homes for the missing. Firefighters never saw anything like the wildfires that have ripped through Oregon and devastated their own communities.

US: Oregon firefighters describe battling historic wildfires

Thousands of evacuees displaced by deadly wildfires in Oregon settled into a second week of life in shelters and car camping on Tuesday as fire crews battled on, and search teams scoured the ruins of incinerated homes for the missing.

US: Wildfires scorched close to 5 million acres

The world has lost nearly 100 million hectares of forests in two decades, marking a steady decline though at a slower pace than before, a UN agency reported Tuesday.

The proportion of forest to total land area fell from 31.9 per cent in 2000 to 31.2 percent in 2020, now some 4.1 billion hectares, according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation. &nbsp;

It marks "a net loss of almost 100 million hectares of the world’s forests," the FAO said.

Deforestation has hit particularly hard sub-Saharan Africa and southeast Asia, where it has accelerated in the last decade, but also Latin and Central America, where it has nonetheless slowed down.

Forests are being cut down mainly to make way for crops or farm animals, especially in less developed countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pushes-37-million-people-into-extreme-poverty-gates-foundation-327805">Also read|&nbsp;Coronavirus pushes 37 million people into extreme poverty: Gates Foundation</a>

In southeast Asia, forest now covers 47.8 per cent of the land compared to 49 per cent in 2015. In sub-Saharan Africa, it covers 27.8 per cent compared to 28.7 per cent five years ago.

In Indonesia, it is 50.9 per cent, down from 52.5 per cent. In Malaysia, it is 58.2 per cent, down from 59.2 per cent five years ago.

A country strongly focused on agriculture like the Ivory Coast has seen forests reduced to 8.9 percent of the total land area from 10.7 percent in &nbsp;2015. Kenya, Mali and Rwanda have largely held firm against forest loss.

In Latin and Central America, forest covers only 46.7 percent of the total land, compared to 47.4 per cent five years ago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-where-do-trump-and-biden-stand-on-climate-change-327786">Also read|&nbsp;US Election 2020: Where do Trump and Biden stand on climate change?</a>

In Brazil, forests declined to 59.4 per cent of the country's territory in 2020 from 60.3 per cent in 2015. In Haiti, deforestation has continued apace — falling to 12.6 percent of the total land area from 13.2 per cent in 2015.

In contrast, in many parts of Asia, Europe and North America forest area has increased or stayed the same in the last five years with policies to restore woodland and allow forests to expand naturally.

In China, forests make up 23.3 per cent, up from 22.3 per cent in 2015. In Japan, they account for 68.4 per cent, the same as it was five years ago.

In France, forests cover 31.5 per cent of the land in 2020, up from 30.7 per cent in 2015. In Italy, they make up 32.5 per cent of the national territory, up from 31.6 five years ago.

In Britain, they make up 13.2 per cent, up from 13 percent five years ago.&nbsp;

In Canada, it is unchanged at 38.2 per cent, and in the United States, unchanged at 33.9 percent.

In Australia the figure rose from 17.3 to 17.4 per cent and in New Zealand from 37.4 per cent to 37.6 per cent over the five years.

The world has lost nearly 100 million hectares of forests in two decades, marking a steady decline though at a slower pace than before, a UN agency reported Tuesday.

The world has lost nearly 100 million hectares of forests in two decades, marking a steady decline though at a slower pace than before, a UN agency reported Tuesday. The proportion of forest to total land area fell from 31.9 per cent in 2000 to 31.2 percent in 2020, now some 4.1 billion hectares, according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation. It marks "a net loss of almost 100 million hectares of the world’s forests," the FAO said. Deforestation has hit particularly hard sub-Saharan Africa and southeast Asia, where it has accelerated in the last decade, but also Latin and Central America, where it has nonetheless slowed down. Forests are being cut down mainly to make way for crops or farm animals, especially in less developed countries. Also read| Coronavirus pushes 37 million people into extreme poverty: Gates Foundation In southeast Asia, forest now covers 47.8 per cent of the land compared to 49 per cent in 2015. In sub-Saharan Africa, it covers 27.8 per cent compared to 28.7 per cent five years ago. In Indonesia, it is 50.9 per cent, down from 52.5 per cent. In Malaysia, it is 58.2 per cent, down from 59.2 per cent five years ago. A country strongly focused on agriculture like the Ivory Coast has seen forests reduced to 8.9 percent of the total land area from 10.7 percent in 2015. Kenya, Mali and Rwanda have largely held firm against forest loss. In Latin and Central America, forest covers only 46.7 percent of the total land, compared to 47.4 per cent five years ago. Also read| US Election 2020: Where do Trump and Biden stand on climate change? In Brazil, forests declined to 59.4 per cent of the country's territory in 2020 from 60.3 per cent in 2015. In Haiti, deforestation has continued apace — falling to 12.6 percent of the total land area from 13.2 per cent in 2015. In contrast, in many parts of Asia, Europe and North America forest area has increased or stayed the same in the last five years with policies to restore woodland and allow forests to expand naturally. In China, forests make up 23.3 per cent, up from 22.3 per cent in 2015. In Japan, they account for 68.4 per cent, the same as it was five years ago. In France, forests cover 31.5 per cent of the land in 2020, up from 30.7 per cent in 2015. In Italy, they make up 32.5 per cent of the national territory, up from 31.6 five years ago. In Britain, they make up 13.2 per cent, up from 13 percent five years ago. In Canada, it is unchanged at 38.2 per cent, and in the United States, unchanged at 33.9 percent. In Australia the figure rose from 17.3 to 17.4 per cent and in New Zealand from 37.4 per cent to 37.6 per cent over the five years.

World lost 100 million hectares of forest in two decades: UN

Oregon wildfires: Nearly 500,000 evacuated amid climate change warning

The wildfires in&nbsp;Oregon have not been caused by any "extremist" group, the FBI announced on Friday, putting an end to various controversies doing rounds on social media.

Several theories on the internet are passing rumours that the wildfires are being intentionally set up by the group&nbsp;Antifa, a structureless movement that says it is dedicated to fighting fascism online and in public, and which is a favored target of conservatives.

"Conspiracy theories and misinformation take valuable resources away (from) local fire and police agencies working around the clock to bring these fires under control," the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Portland office said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-death-toll-of-west-coast-wildfires-rises-to-9-500000-ordered-to-evacuate-in-oregon-326779">Also read|&nbsp;US: Death toll of West Coast wildfires rises to 9; 500,000 ordered to evacuate in Oregon</a>

"FBI Portland and local law enforcement agencies have been receiving reports that extremists are responsible for setting wildfires in Oregon. With our state and local partners, the FBI has investigated several such reports and found them to be untrue," it said.

The rumours about Antifa being the group behind this started when&nbsp;Paul Romero Jr, who unsuccessfully ran to be one of Oregon's US senators, posted this conspiracy theory on social media.&nbsp;"Oregon is on fire! Pallet Company in Oregon City confirmed Antifa arsonist on camera. Douglas County Sheriff has 6 ANTIFA arsonists in custody," he wrote in a tweet that spread as a screenshot on Facebook.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-six-die-in-wildfires-as-orange-skies-blacken-us-california-326449">Also read|&nbsp;At least six die in wildfires as orange skies blacken US</a>

However,&nbsp;the Douglas County Sheriff's Office clarified in a Facebook post: "Our 9-1-1 dispatchers and professional staff are being overrun with requests for information and inquiries on an UNTRUE rumor that 6 Antifa members have been arrested for setting fires."

Several social media posts also started claiming that seven members of the Antifa group have been arrested for starting the&nbsp;Oregon fires. However,&nbsp;Mike Moran, public information officer for the sheriff's office in Jackson County, clarified&nbsp;

"There is absolutely no truth to that story that seven Antifa people or anyone affiliated with Antifa or other organizations have been arrested for anything in our area."

"It's totally counterproductive. We're trying to do a lot of emergency work and people call in with things making false reports or just wanting to check on this story that has no merit," he said.

Th wildfires have destroyed hundreds of houses and have injured several people. The local authorities have started rescue operations and are urging people to exercise caution and stay away from any fake news.

The wildfires in Oregon have not been caused by any "extremist" group, the FBI announced on Friday, putting an end to various controversies doing rounds on social media.

The wildfires in Oregon have not been caused by any "extremist" group, the FBI announced on Friday, putting an end to various controversies doing rounds on social media. Several theories on the internet are passing rumours that the wildfires are being intentionally set up by the group Antifa, a structureless movement that says it is dedicated to fighting fascism online and in public, and which is a favored target of conservatives. "Conspiracy theories and misinformation take valuable resources away (from) local fire and police agencies working around the clock to bring these fires under control," the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Portland office said in a statement. Also read| US: Death toll of West Coast wildfires rises to 9; 500,000 ordered to evacuate in Oregon "FBI Portland and local law enforcement agencies have been receiving reports that extremists are responsible for setting wildfires in Oregon. With our state and local partners, the FBI has investigated several such reports and found them to be untrue," it said. The rumours about Antifa being the group behind this started when Paul Romero Jr, who unsuccessfully ran to be one of Oregon's US senators, posted this conspiracy theory on social media. "Oregon is on fire! Pallet Company in Oregon City confirmed Antifa arsonist on camera. Douglas County Sheriff has 6 ANTIFA arsonists in custody," he wrote in a tweet that spread as a screenshot on Facebook. Also read| At least six die in wildfires as orange skies blacken US However, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office clarified in a Facebook post: "Our 9-1-1 dispatchers and professional staff are being overrun with requests for information and inquiries on an UNTRUE rumor that 6 Antifa members have been arrested for setting fires." Several social media posts also started claiming that seven members of the Antifa group have been arrested for starting the Oregon fires. However, Mike Moran, public information officer for the sheriff's office in Jackson County, clarified "There is absolutely no truth to that story that seven Antifa people or anyone affiliated with Antifa or other organizations have been arrested for anything in our area." "It's totally counterproductive. We're trying to do a lot of emergency work and people call in with things making false reports or just wanting to check on this story that has no merit," he said. Th wildfires have destroyed hundreds of houses and have injured several people. The local authorities have started rescue operations and are urging people to exercise caution and stay away from any fake news.

Oregon wildfires are not intentional, no role of 'extremists': FBI

A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday.

The settlement of Feriza and the boarding school were evacuated protectively, a fire brigade official said, adding that there were no reports of casualties or damage. About 30 children had been transferred to a nearby hotel.

At least 40 firefighters supported by 16 fire engines, two aircraft and four helicopters battled the blaze, which broke out around midday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/fire-breaks-out-at-overcrowded-moria-migrant-camp-in-greece-326137" hreflang="en">Fire breaks out at overcrowded Moria migrant camp in Greece</a>

Traffic was diverted and TV images showed residents, wearing masks due to the coronavirus pandemic, standing in the streets nearby.

Greece often experiences wildfires during its dry summer months. Temperatures have remained high for the season, and authorities have warned of the high risk of blazes this week.

A forest fire was also burning near the seaside town of Nea Makri, northeast of Athens, the fire brigade said.

Early on Wednesday, fires broke out in a migrant camp on the island of Lesbos, destroying tents and containers and leaving thousands of people homeless.

A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday.

A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday. The settlement of Feriza and the boarding school were evacuated protectively, a fire brigade official said, adding that there were no reports of casualties or damage. About 30 children had been transferred to a nearby hotel. At least 40 firefighters supported by 16 fire engines, two aircraft and four helicopters battled the blaze, which broke out around midday. Also read: Fire breaks out at overcrowded Moria migrant camp in Greece Traffic was diverted and TV images showed residents, wearing masks due to the coronavirus pandemic, standing in the streets nearby. Greece often experiences wildfires during its dry summer months. Temperatures have remained high for the season, and authorities have warned of the high risk of blazes this week. A forest fire was also burning near the seaside town of Nea Makri, northeast of Athens, the fire brigade said. Early on Wednesday, fires broke out in a migrant camp on the island of Lesbos, destroying tents and containers and leaving thousands of people homeless.

Greek wildfire rages near Athens, residential area evacuated

Over 200 people, who were trapped in wildfires in northern California, were airlifted to safety by members of the California National Guard, officials said on Sunday.

California wildfires: More than 200 people airlifted to safety

Wildfires in California have torched a record more than two million acres, the state fire department said Monday, as an uncontrolled blaze forced many residents to flee their homes.

The record was hit as the wildfire season still has roughly two months to go in the most populous US state and as thousands of firefighters were battling flames during a scorching heat wave.

"In the past 33 years we have not seen a single year go over two million acres until this year," said California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) spokeswoman Lynne Tolmachoff.

"This is definitely record-breaking and we have not even come close to the end of fire season yet."

At least seven people have died as a result of this year's fires and some 3,800 structures have been damaged or destroyed, according to Cal Fire figures.

The last time the number of acres burned got close to two million was in 2018, the same year as the devastating Camp Fire, when a little more than 1.9 million acres (769,000 hectares) went up in flames.

More than 14,100 firefighters were battling 24 different wildfires as of Monday afternoon, the fire department said in a tweet.

Among those blazes was the Creek Fire, which started on Friday in steep and rugged terrain, has so far spread to 78,790 acres and is zero percent contained, according to Cal Fire.

The department said on Twitter that 976 personnel were battling the fire, which had continued to grow "under extreme conditions."

Another rapidly growing fire, the Oak Fire, began Sunday in Mendocino county and has already grown to 1,000 acres.

Cal Fire said that 83 personnel were on hand to battle the blaze, which was zero percent contained.

Evacuation orders were in effect throughout southern California on Monday afternoon.

In northern California, more than 200 people were airlifted to safety over the weekend after a fast-moving wildfire trapped them near the Mammoth Pool Reservoir northeast of Fresno.

They were rescued by military helicopters, with dozens packed into a Chinook, video shared by the California National Guard showed.

Record temperatures over the three-day Labor Day weekend have aggravated already dangerous fire conditions and further stressed exhausted California firefighters.

California has been baking under scorching conditions with temperatures reaching a record 121 degrees Fahrenheit (49 Celsius) on Sunday in Woodland Hills, an all-time high for Los Angeles county, the National Weather Service said.

Wildfires in California have torched a record more than two million acres, the state fire department said Monday, as an uncontrolled blaze forced many residents to flee their homes.

Wildfires in California have torched a record more than two million acres, the state fire department said Monday, as an uncontrolled blaze forced many residents to flee their homes. The record was hit as the wildfire season still has roughly two months to go in the most populous US state and as thousands of firefighters were battling flames during a scorching heat wave. "In the past 33 years we have not seen a single year go over two million acres until this year," said California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) spokeswoman Lynne Tolmachoff. "This is definitely record-breaking and we have not even come close to the end of fire season yet." At least seven people have died as a result of this year's fires and some 3,800 structures have been damaged or destroyed, according to Cal Fire figures. The last time the number of acres burned got close to two million was in 2018, the same year as the devastating Camp Fire, when a little more than 1.9 million acres (769,000 hectares) went up in flames. More than 14,100 firefighters were battling 24 different wildfires as of Monday afternoon, the fire department said in a tweet. Among those blazes was the Creek Fire, which started on Friday in steep and rugged terrain, has so far spread to 78,790 acres and is zero percent contained, according to Cal Fire. The department said on Twitter that 976 personnel were battling the fire, which had continued to grow "under extreme conditions." Another rapidly growing fire, the Oak Fire, began Sunday in Mendocino county and has already grown to 1,000 acres. Cal Fire said that 83 personnel were on hand to battle the blaze, which was zero percent contained. Evacuation orders were in effect throughout southern California on Monday afternoon. In northern California, more than 200 people were airlifted to safety over the weekend after a fast-moving wildfire trapped them near the Mammoth Pool Reservoir northeast of Fresno. They were rescued by military helicopters, with dozens packed into a Chinook, video shared by the California National Guard showed. Record temperatures over the three-day Labor Day weekend have aggravated already dangerous fire conditions and further stressed exhausted California firefighters. California has been baking under scorching conditions with temperatures reaching a record 121 degrees Fahrenheit (49 Celsius) on Sunday in Woodland Hills, an all-time high for Los Angeles county, the National Weather Service said.

California fires burn record 2 million acres

Wildfires in California have torched a record more than two million acres, the state fire department said Monday, as an uncontrolled blaze forced many residents to flee their homes. California's governow has declared state of emergency.

California: Wildfires burn record 2 million acres, state of emergency declared

Dry thunderstorms spark massive fires in California; close to a million acres burnt

Raging wildfires have wreaked havoc in California as they have burned nearly one million acres in a week and destroyed hundreds of homes. The weekend weather, in addition, threatened to spark new fires and overwhelm the state's firefighting ability.

Wildfires continue to rage in California, at least 6 dead

Dozens of lightning-sparked California wildfires grew rapidly on Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate homes in the San Francisco Bay Area.

California has been hit by its worst lightning storms in nearly two decades, with around 11,000 strikes igniting over 370 fires this week and stretching firefighting resources to the limit, authorities said.

At least nine fires raced through hills and mountains in the North Bay's wine country about 35 miles (56 km) southwest of Sacramento, destroying over 105 homes and other structures.

Together they have doubled in size to 131,000 acres (53,000-hectares) since Wednesday, forming a "megafire" 10 times larger than New York's Manhattan Island across Napa, Yolo, Solano and two other counties.

Collectively known as the LNU Complex Fire, they sent wind-driven flames racing 120 feet a minute across grassland parched by record-breaking, triple-digit heat, according to fire authority Cal Fire.

"It's the scariest thing I've ever seen, the heat, and it came so fast," said Fairfield evacuee Stacy Kline.

A Vacaville PG&amp;E utility worker died on Wednesday helping first responders, and at least four civilians were injured, according to a California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) spokeswoman.

In central California a firefighting helicopter crashed in Fresno County about 160 miles (260 km) south of San Francisco on Wednesday, killing contract pilot Mike Fournier, 52, a former TV helicopter pilot and high school football coach, his family said.

South of San Francisco, a cluster of lightning-strike fires doubled in size to 40,000 acres in San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties around 13 miles south of Palo Alto, injuring three first responders, forcing 22,000 to evacuate and destroying 20 structures, CalFire said.

Another group of 20 fires, called the SCU Lightning Complex, jumped by nearly a third to around 140,000 acres on Thursday some 20 miles east of Palo Alto across four counties, injuring two first responders.

California has warmed 1 to 2 degrees Fahrenheit since the beginning of the 20th century, and higher temperatures are blamed for longer and more intense fire seasons that have caused eight of its 10 largest wildfires in the last 15 years.

Governor Gavin Newsom requested 375 fire crews from out of state as resources ran thin, in part as prisoners normally conscripted into firefighting were locked down for COVID-19 or released from prison to slow the spread of the virus.

To the east in drought-stricken Colorado, the state's second-largest wildfire in history grew slightly to 121,781 acres, containment ticking up to 14 percent as it burned in remote mountains near Grand Junction, about 190 miles west of Denver.

Dozens of lightning-sparked California wildfires grew rapidly on Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate homes in the San Francisco Bay Area. California has been hit by its worst lightning storms in nearly two decades, with around 11,000 strikes igniting over 370 fires this week and stretching firefighting resources to the limit, authorities said.

Dozens of lightning-sparked California wildfires grew rapidly on Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate homes in the San Francisco Bay Area. California has been hit by its worst lightning storms in nearly two decades, with around 11,000 strikes igniting over 370 fires this week and stretching firefighting resources to the limit, authorities said. At least nine fires raced through hills and mountains in the North Bay's wine country about 35 miles (56 km) southwest of Sacramento, destroying over 105 homes and other structures. Together they have doubled in size to 131,000 acres (53,000-hectares) since Wednesday, forming a "megafire" 10 times larger than New York's Manhattan Island across Napa, Yolo, Solano and two other counties. Collectively known as the LNU Complex Fire, they sent wind-driven flames racing 120 feet a minute across grassland parched by record-breaking, triple-digit heat, according to fire authority Cal Fire. "It's the scariest thing I've ever seen, the heat, and it came so fast," said Fairfield evacuee Stacy Kline. A Vacaville PG&E utility worker died on Wednesday helping first responders, and at least four civilians were injured, according to a California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) spokeswoman. In central California a firefighting helicopter crashed in Fresno County about 160 miles (260 km) south of San Francisco on Wednesday, killing contract pilot Mike Fournier, 52, a former TV helicopter pilot and high school football coach, his family said. South of San Francisco, a cluster of lightning-strike fires doubled in size to 40,000 acres in San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties around 13 miles south of Palo Alto, injuring three first responders, forcing 22,000 to evacuate and destroying 20 structures, CalFire said. Another group of 20 fires, called the SCU Lightning Complex, jumped by nearly a third to around 140,000 acres on Thursday some 20 miles east of Palo Alto across four counties, injuring two first responders. California has warmed 1 to 2 degrees Fahrenheit since the beginning of the 20th century, and higher temperatures are blamed for longer and more intense fire seasons that have caused eight of its 10 largest wildfires in the last 15 years. Governor Gavin Newsom requested 375 fire crews from out of state as resources ran thin, in part as prisoners normally conscripted into firefighting were locked down for COVID-19 or released from prison to slow the spread of the virus. To the east in drought-stricken Colorado, the state's second-largest wildfire in history grew slightly to 121,781 acres, containment ticking up to 14 percent as it burned in remote mountains near Grand Junction, about 190 miles west of Denver.

Thousands evacuated as California wildfires double in size

In the United States, the massive wildfire burning in Northern California has resulted in rare and dangerous fire tornado's Watch report.

20,000 acres of land destroyed in California fire

A thermometer at Death Valley’s Furnace Creek in the Southern California desert has soared to 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 Celsius)

WION Dispatch:California shows highest global temperature in over 100 years | Climate Change

California is currently witnessing a wildfire, with extremely dangerous heat conditions to persist for the next few days. In Palm Springs alone, the temperature is expected to touch 41 degree Celsius.

Owing to the dangerous conditions, thousands have been evacuated across the state, especially in the southern region. Over 300 personnel are fighting to contain the wildfire in the US state of California.

"Apple Fire"

The fire is being called the “Apple Fire” by frontline firemen, who commonly names wildfires. The current spot of the fire lies east of Los Angeles and continues to blaze.

As per the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Apple Fire ripped through 60 square kilometres of dry bush and timber, and has put the counties of Riverside and San Bernardino at risk of heavy damage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-records-1000-deaths-in-one-day-from-covid-19-california-passes-400000-cases-315061" hreflang="en">US records 1,000 deaths in one day from COVID-19, California passes 400,000 cases</a>

The fire began on Friday when two small fires were reported in Cherry Valley, which falls close to the city of Beaumont, at least 137 kilometres east of Los Angeles. The containment efforts were delayed as the blaze could not be brought under control over the weekend.

The authorities have employed all resources at hand to control the blaze. Besides the ground, air support has been deployed. Even though no direct injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, one home and two buildings have been destroyed.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/south-california-wildfire-burns-12000-acres-of-land-hot-condition-to-continue-for-next-3-days-317625/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Over 8,000 evacuated

Considering the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the smoke from the flames could put the vulnerable in the hospital.

In the county of Riverside alone, 8,000 people have been asked to vacate their homes. Additional orders to evacuate were commissioned for canyon, foothill, and mountain regions around the country.

California, famous for its hiker trails and beaches has shut down all camping areas and hiking activity in the view of the current inferno.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/california-rolls-back-reopening-reimposes-restrictions-as-us-coronavirus-crisis-expands-313110" hreflang="en">California rolls back reopening; reimposes restrictions as US coronavirus crisis expands</a>

On Saturday, the temperature touched 41 degree Celsius (105F), causing poor air quality in the region, with smoke visible across the region. The National Weather Service in the US has called the fire would trigger “dangerously hot conditions” across southern parts of the state.

So far, people living across 2,586 homes have been asked to evacuate. Over the weekend, the fire engulfed 4,125 acres, up from 700 acres earlier on Friday.

California is currently witnessing a wildfire, with extremely dangerous heat conditions to persist for the next few days. In Palm Springs alone, the temperature is expected to touch 41 degree Celsius.

California is currently witnessing a wildfire, with extremely dangerous heat conditions to persist for the next few days. In Palm Springs alone, the temperature is expected to touch 41 degree Celsius. Owing to the dangerous conditions, thousands have been evacuated across the state, especially in the southern region. Over 300 personnel are fighting to contain the wildfire in the US state of California. "Apple Fire" The fire is being called the “Apple Fire” by frontline firemen, who commonly names wildfires. The current spot of the fire lies east of Los Angeles and continues to blaze. As per the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Apple Fire ripped through 60 square kilometres of dry bush and timber, and has put the counties of Riverside and San Bernardino at risk of heavy damage. Also read: US records 1,000 deaths in one day from COVID-19, California passes 400,000 cases The fire began on Friday when two small fires were reported in Cherry Valley, which falls close to the city of Beaumont, at least 137 kilometres east of Los Angeles. The containment efforts were delayed as the blaze could not be brought under control over the weekend. The authorities have employed all resources at hand to control the blaze. Besides the ground, air support has been deployed. Even though no direct injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, one home and two buildings have been destroyed. Over 8,000 evacuated Considering the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the smoke from the flames could put the vulnerable in the hospital. In the county of Riverside alone, 8,000 people have been asked to vacate their homes. Additional orders to evacuate were commissioned for canyon, foothill, and mountain regions around the country. California, famous for its hiker trails and beaches has shut down all camping areas and hiking activity in the view of the current inferno. Also read: California rolls back reopening; reimposes restrictions as US coronavirus crisis expands On Saturday, the temperature touched 41 degree Celsius (105F), causing poor air quality in the region, with smoke visible across the region. The National Weather Service in the US has called the fire would trigger “dangerously hot conditions” across southern parts of the state. So far, people living across 2,586 homes have been asked to evacuate. Over the weekend, the fire engulfed 4,125 acres, up from 700 acres earlier on Friday.

'Apple Fire' raises the heat in California as temperature touches 41° C

Superstorms, landslides, heat waves and raging wildfires have occurred even as the world battles the pandemic. China Rescue teams have been scrambling in the country, although not in full strength.

Superstorms, landslides, heat waves and raging wildfires have occurred even as the world battles the pandemic. China Rescue teams have been scrambling in the country, although not in full strength. They are fighting a war in multiple fronts as heavy rainfall continues to batter large parts of China. On Wednesday, a landslide buried nine people in Hubei province. So far, more than 100 people have been killed in floods caused by the worst storm in decades. In the affected areas rainfall is two to three times higher than normal. A dam in south-eastern China opened its gates for the first time in nine years to lower water levels. It is a difficult time for students sitting for the national college entrance exam or the Gaokao. Nearly 11 million students are taking the exam this year. In the eastern Anhui province, floods have already delayed two tests. Japan Floods and landslides have killed at least 58 people in Japan. Heavy rains have caused rivers to burst their bank. Floods have swept away bridges and submerged houses. Now, entire south-western Japan is on high alert. More torrential rain is expected in the coming days. An emergency warning has been raised to the second-highest level. About 3.6 million people have been advised to evacuate. United States of America The wildfire in the US state of Nevada has now doubled in size. So far, it has engulfed 18,000 acres of land near Carson city. Aerial crews are helping more than 400 firefighters on the ground battling the blaze. Residents in the neighbouring areas are being evacuated. Another huge wildfire is burning in northern California. On July 4, America's independence day -- firefighters battled over 60 wildfires near Fairfield. Ukraine A forest fire has killed six people in eastern Ukraine. The fire broke out in the Luhansk region and spread over 200 acres. It is partially under the control of pro-Russia separatists. More than 120 houses were burnt down close to the battlefront between the separatists and Ukrainian forces. Water-bombing planes have been sent to put out the blaze. Russia Russia is sweltering in unusually high temperatures. Heatwaves struck capital Moscow and four other regions. In Moscow -- special cooling rooms have been set up around the city. With temperatures soaring above 30 degrees celsius. Authorities have declared an orange danger level. In several parts of Russia -- wildfires are intensifying due to the heat.

World battles coronavirus pandemic amid superstorms and wildfires

Record-breaking Arctic heat leaves Siberia 'red-faced'

The Australian government has pledged $52 million (A$76 million) to the tourism industry in the aftermath of bushfires that ravaged the country. Currently, Australia is witnessing heavy rains that have helped to dampen the effect of the fire.

The fires were brought under control very recently after the disaster ruined an area roughly a third the size of Germany since September.&nbsp;

"Our federal response to these devastating bushfires is comprehensive and unprecedented," Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in a statement.

Around 29 people have killed in the bushfires, with millions of animals falling victim to the fire.

The country is famous for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and open-air sporting events.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8604447-7e6a-4821-a709-d01cbff5941d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_52.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;A general view of Tomich Winery following a bushfire in December 2019, in Adelaide Hills, Australia January 18, 2020 | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

Reuters reported that the damage to tourism has cost the country A$1 billion, as per the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC).

However, the losses may run over A$4.5 billion by the end of 2020, as suggested by the Australian Tourism Export Council.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Australia: Floods, road closures affected bushfire-hit regions after heavy storm

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-floods-road-closures-affected-bushfire-hit-regions-after-heavy-storm-275117/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

More funds may be allotted for recovery later on, with Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham calling it an ''initial package''.

"There may need to be additional support and funding as we work through this recovery," Birmingham said.

Tourism accounts for three per cent of the annual economic output in the country and is expected to take hits owing to the disastrous fires.&nbsp;

The states of Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland have been affected the most by fires, and are now dealing with unprecedented rain and thunderstorms.

<h6><img alt="ttt" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d828c6e5-b989-4997-bdd0-a58e1b99cc54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_43.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;This photo taken on January 15, 2020 shows a burnt vehicle seen after a bushfire in Budgong area of New South Wales | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

More rain is expected in eastern and southern Australia in the next two days, which will help the cause of the firefighters and help cool the fires further.

Reuters reported that 69 bushfires are still burning in New South Wales, with a third of them still uncontained.&nbsp;

Victoria might get some relief from fire as storms are expected to gain traction. As of today, 14 fires are burning in the state, which is a famous hiking spot.

There were fears of smoke emanating from bushfires causing a delay in the Australian Open tennis tournament, but the smoke had receded by then.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-bushfires-unprecedented-rain-floods-parts-of-australian-east-coast-274966">After bushfires, unprecedented rain floods parts of Australian east coast</a>

(With inputs from Reuters)

The Australian government has pledged $52 million (A$76 million) to the tourism industry in the aftermath of bushfires that ravaged the country. Currently, Australia is witnessing heavy rains that have helped to dampen the effect of the fire.

The Australian government has pledged $52 million (A$76 million) to the tourism industry in the aftermath of bushfires that ravaged the country. Currently, Australia is witnessing heavy rains that have helped to dampen the effect of the fire. The fires were brought under control very recently after the disaster ruined an area roughly a third the size of Germany since September. "Our federal response to these devastating bushfires is comprehensive and unprecedented," Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in a statement. Around 29 people have killed in the bushfires, with millions of animals falling victim to the fire. The country is famous for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and open-air sporting events. Image: A general view of Tomich Winery following a bushfire in December 2019, in Adelaide Hills, Australia January 18, 2020 | Reuters Reuters reported that the damage to tourism has cost the country A$1 billion, as per the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC). However, the losses may run over A$4.5 billion by the end of 2020, as suggested by the Australian Tourism Export Council. Watch: Australia: Floods, road closures affected bushfire-hit regions after heavy storm More funds may be allotted for recovery later on, with Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham calling it an ''initial package''. "There may need to be additional support and funding as we work through this recovery," Birmingham said. Tourism accounts for three per cent of the annual economic output in the country and is expected to take hits owing to the disastrous fires. The states of Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland have been affected the most by fires, and are now dealing with unprecedented rain and thunderstorms. Image: This photo taken on January 15, 2020 shows a burnt vehicle seen after a bushfire in Budgong area of New South Wales | AFP More rain is expected in eastern and southern Australia in the next two days, which will help the cause of the firefighters and help cool the fires further. Reuters reported that 69 bushfires are still burning in New South Wales, with a third of them still uncontained. Victoria might get some relief from fire as storms are expected to gain traction. As of today, 14 fires are burning in the state, which is a famous hiking spot. There were fears of smoke emanating from bushfires causing a delay in the Australian Open tennis tournament, but the smoke had receded by then. Also read: After bushfires, unprecedented rain floods parts of Australian east coast (With inputs from Reuters)

Australian government pledges $52 million to revive tourism in bushfire-ravaged states

Bushfires in Australia are having a devastating impact on wildlife, with welfare groups racing to rescue as many wild animals as possible. But not all can be saved.

Not all animals injured in bushfires can be saved: Australian volunteers

Australian farmer, Anthony Thomas, sat on his quad bike on Wednesday (January 8) as he looked at his farm, wiped out by the catastrophic bushfires which swept through Kiah in New South Wales, taking everything in its path when it blazed through four days ago.

'It just meant so much to me': Australian farmer loses entire deer farm to raging bushfire

The bushfires in Australia show no signs of abating. Satellite images taken on January 7 showed bushfires smoke drifting across Chile and Argentina, some 11,000 km away from Australia's east coast. #WION #Australia #AustraliaBushfires

Australian bushfires smoke travels through South America

Australia's most populous state declared its second state of emergency in two months on Thursday (December 19) as extreme heat and strong winds fanned scores of uncontrolled bushfires with aerial vision showing at least three properties on fire in south west Sydney.

Properties destroyed, as state of emergency declared for New South Wales

California's bankrupt power producer PG&amp;E Corp said on Friday (December 6) it had reached a $13.5 billion settlement with victims of some of most devastating wildfires in the state's modern history.

State fire investigators in May determined that PG&amp;E transmission lines caused the deadliest and most destructive wildfire on record in California, the wind-driven Camp Fire that killed 85 people in and around the town of Paradise last year.

They likewise concluded that PG&amp;E power lines had sparked a separate flurry of wildfires that swept California's wine country north of San Francisco Bay in 2017.

The agreement helps smooth the way for the beleaguered company to emerge from bankruptcy. It filed for Chapter 11 protection in January, citing potential liabilities in excess of $30 billion from wildfires in 2017 and 2018 linked to its equipment.

PG&amp;E had previously reached a $1 billion settlement with cities, counties and other public entities and an $11 billion agreement with insurance carriers related to the wildfires.

It has come under renewed criticism this year for precautionary power outages to guard against the risk of wildfires posed by extremely dry and windy weather.

California's bankrupt power producer PG&E Corp said on Friday (December 6) it had reached a $13.5 billion settlement with victims of some of most devastating wildfires in the state's modern history.

California's bankrupt power producer PG&E Corp said on Friday (December 6) it had reached a $13.5 billion settlement with victims of some of most devastating wildfires in the state's modern history. State fire investigators in May determined that PG&E transmission lines caused the deadliest and most destructive wildfire on record in California, the wind-driven Camp Fire that killed 85 people in and around the town of Paradise last year. They likewise concluded that PG&E power lines had sparked a separate flurry of wildfires that swept California's wine country north of San Francisco Bay in 2017. The agreement helps smooth the way for the beleaguered company to emerge from bankruptcy. It filed for Chapter 11 protection in January, citing potential liabilities in excess of $30 billion from wildfires in 2017 and 2018 linked to its equipment. PG&E had previously reached a $1 billion settlement with cities, counties and other public entities and an $11 billion agreement with insurance carriers related to the wildfires. It has come under renewed criticism this year for precautionary power outages to guard against the risk of wildfires posed by extremely dry and windy weather.

Bankrupt PG&E reaches $13.5 bn settlement with California wildfire victims

2010s the hottest decade in recorded history

Thirteen Pakistanis including eight children died early Monday when a blaze tore through their corrugated metal home in a rural area of western Jordan, authorities said.

Rescue services said "13 people died and three others were injured when the fire broke out in a corrugated metal house" on a farm in South Shona, around 50 kilometres&nbsp;west of Amman.

The makeshift building was home to two Pakistani families working as agricultural labourers, they said in a statement.

Fire service spokesman Iyad al-Omari told state television channel Al-Mamlaka that eight children, four women and a man had died in the blaze at around 2:00 am, which was likely caused by an electrical fault.

Jordan is home to thousands of Pakistanis, many of them agricultural labourers.

House fires in Jordan are often caused by the use of cheap but dangerous forms of heating while the occupants are asleep.

Thirteen Pakistanis including eight children died early Monday when a blaze tore through their corrugated metal home in a rural area of western Jordan, authorities said.

Thirteen Pakistanis including eight children died early Monday when a blaze tore through their corrugated metal home in a rural area of western Jordan, authorities said. Rescue services said "13 people died and three others were injured when the fire broke out in a corrugated metal house" on a farm in South Shona, around 50 kilometres west of Amman. The makeshift building was home to two Pakistani families working as agricultural labourers, they said in a statement. Fire service spokesman Iyad al-Omari told state television channel Al-Mamlaka that eight children, four women and a man had died in the blaze at around 2:00 am, which was likely caused by an electrical fault. Jordan is home to thousands of Pakistanis, many of them agricultural labourers. House fires in Jordan are often caused by the use of cheap but dangerous forms of heating while the occupants are asleep.

Jordan: Children among 13 Pakistanis killed in blaze

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