A state of emergency has been declared in California's Mariposa County after thousands were ordered to evacuate because of a fast-moving wildfire near Yosemite National Park on Saturday. Read more:
Why you can trust Sky News
The Oak Fire exploded into one of the state's largest wildfires of the year, with officials issuing evacuation orders and shutting off power to more than 2,000 homes and businesses. Evacuation orders are now in place for more than 6,000 people living across a sparsely populated rural area."Explosive fire behaviour is challenging firefighters," said the department, describing the blaze as"extreme with frequent runs, spot fires and group torching".The fire had destroyed 10 residential and commercial structures by Saturday morning and was threatening 2,000 others.
"The fire is moving quickly. This fire was throwing embers out in front of itself for up to two miles yesterday. These are exceptional fire conditions," warned Mr Patterson.Residents have been sharing pictures on social media of an enormous pyrocumulus cloud stretching up into the atmosphere.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Thousands of Americans ordered to flee homes due to 'explosive' Yosemite wildfireMore than 400 firefighters are battling the blaze in the Sierra Nevada foothills, armed with water-dropping helicopters and other firefighting aircraft, as well as bulldozers.
Read more »
'Explosive' wildfire tears through homes and forests as thousands forced to flee in CaliforniaAn 'explosive' wildfire that has rampaged through homes and forced thousands to evacuate has triggered a state of emergency in part of California.
Read more »
'Explosive' wildfire tears through homes as thousands forced to flee in CaliforniaAn 'explosive' wildfire that has rampaged through homes and forced thousands to evacuate has triggered a state of emergency in part of California.
Read more »
California declares state of emergency over wildfiresCalifornia has declared a state of emergency over spreading wildfires. Thousands of people have been forced to evacuate their homes as the Oak Fire, which is being fuelled by drought and high temperatures, continues to spread. Anja_Popp reports.
Read more »
Oak Fire: Emergency declared as wildfire rages near Yosemite National ParkMore than three thousand people have evacuated as the wildfire rages near Yosemite National Park.
Read more »
Monkeypox: Risk is low in Scotland as 54 cases confirmedThe World Health Organisation has declared a global health emergency following a worldwide surge.
Read more »