Fires lead to California evacuation

(04 July 2008)

Wildfires in California have swept across the Big Sur coastline between San Francisco and Los Angeles, killing one firefighter and causing thousands to leave their homes.

Most of the 1,000 fires are burning in less populated areas but more than 8,000 homes are thought to be at risk. Residents in parts of three counties have been told to evacuate.

The fires were started by lightning in dry wilderness areas.

The authorities are thought to be having difficulty coping. Members of the state's National Guard have been drafted in to help.