USA: Thousands flee their homes after a dozen wildfires stoked by gusting winds burn in southern California

Gusting winds stoke wildfires in the United States forcing thousands to evacuate their homes. A dozen wildfires stoked by gusting winds burned in southern California on Monday (October 22) forcing thousands to evacuate homes from the celebrity enclave of Malibu down to the Mexican border. Weather forecasts indicated that firefighters and residents faced two more days of high winds, hot temperatures and low humidity in the drought-stricken region. The Malibu fire burned 2,200 acres (900 hectares) from dawn to dusk and destroyed at least 10 buildings, including a landmark castle-like house and a Presbyterian church, officials said. No injuries were reported. To the south in rural San Diego County, officials said one person died and 17 others were injured, including four firefighters, in a fire that scorched 14,000 acres (5,700 hectares) and shrouded the skies over San Diego harbour to the west. Authorities told people to avoid Malibu beaches. But surfers were seen in the water taking advantage of the waves powered by high winds.

ITN Source | October 22, 2007

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