News

Death toll rises to 31 as California wildfires rage across state

At least 31 people have died following a series of forest fires across California.

Hundreds of people remain missing as 22 fires raged across California’s wine country.

More than 3,500 buildings and homes have been destroyed with around 25,000 people being driven from their properties.

Officials said seventeen people are now confirmed killed in Sonoma County, with another eight in Mendocino County, four in Yuba County and two in Napa County.

Forecasters have warned strong winds on Friday night through to Saturday will likely fan the flames again.

A spokesman for the Fire Department said: “Due to erratic fire behaviour, driven by strong, gusting winds, we are not able to give a firm prediction on all areas potentially at risk.”

No rain is expected for another week.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Share article

View Comments

Jacobs Media is honoured to be the recipient of the 2020 Queen's Award for Enterprise.

The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more.