Deadly wildfires wreak havoc across California

A fast-moving wildfire engulfed the Sierra foothills in northern California, decimating Paradise — a town of 30,000 people located 87 miles (140 kilometers) north of the state capital of Sacramento. The blaze, dubbed the Camp Fire, was driven by dry conditions and strong winds.

Tens of thousands of people fled the Camp Fire, some clutching babies and pets as they abandoned vehicles and evacuated on foot. At least 23 people were killed, several of them burned in their vehicles as they sought to escape the inferno.

Flames engulfed hospitals, homes and other structures as the fire whipped through Paradise. Authorities estimated that more than 6,000 structures were destroyed. "Pretty much the community of Paradise is destroyed, it's that kind of devastation," said Cal Fire Captain Scott McLean.

Residents who returned to the town following the devastation found everything they once knew incinerated.

More than 2,000 firefighters were deployed to battle the fire. They were backed up by helicopters and water tankers.

The wildfires raging across the state add to what has already been one of the worst fire years in California — 621,743 acres have been destroyed, triple the five-year average.

In southern California, a quarter of a million people are under evacuation orders in Ventura Country and neighboring Los Angeles County due to wildfires. Malibu, home to Hollywood stars, was also ordered to evacuate.

Hundreds of homes have been destroyed by wildfires in southern California. Firefighters are trying to battle two separate fires from raging through upscale homes and neighborhoods.