One-meter-high flames and dense clouds of smoke spread across Yosemite National Park, USA. The first buildings have already been burned.
Yosemite National Park in the USA is now the scene of a veritable inferno of flames. Extreme drought and wind have already caused the so-called “Fogo do Carvalho” to cover an area of 48 square kilometers. California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in the area.
2,700 homes affected
The fire has already completely destroyed ten buildings and damaged five others. A total of 2,700 homes in the vicinity of the national park are threatened by fire. According to media reports, thousands of residents had to stay to safety. Nearly 2,100 firefighters battled the blaze with 225 fire engines and 17 helicopters.
The first photos show clouds of smoke several meters high and trees on fire. A local man told CNN that the fire had already completely destroyed his parents’ house. “It’s very sad to see that the house I grew up in is gone,” he said. “It hits you hard.”
It is not yet known what caused the fire. However, the weather is hampering all attempts to extinguish the fire for the emergency services. The southwestern United States has been plagued by several wildfires for weeks, which officials say are fueled by persistent drought.
TK time of the navigation account24.07.2022, 21:48| Act: 07/24/2022, 21:48