more than 4,000 people are in the northern part of the US state California In the face of rapid progress wild fire Expelled. The fire was spreading between 1,600 and 2,020 hectares per hour, emergency services said Friday evening (local time).

Called the Park Fire, it is a… Heat wave California’s most violent wildfire so far this summer. It has destroyed nearly 97,000 hectares.

The fire is “zero percent” contained

Although used around 1,700 firefighters The California Fire Authority said the fire was “zero percent” contained. Hundreds of additional assistants are expected to bolster operations.

A total of 4,000 people were evacuated from the towns of Cohasset and Forest Ranch, and another 400 from the city of Chico. According to officials, 134 buildings have been destroyed so far.

The forest fire broke out on Wednesday evening. In two days, by area, it already ranks as the 20th largest wildfire in California history.

The burning car was thrown into a ditch

A 42-year-old man was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of arson. According to the district attorney in charge, he saw the burning car being pushed into the ravine.

California is enjoying an early start to what looks to be a great year Severe forest fire season There are currently 20 active fires. Another 40 fires threaten communities in states further north Washington And Oregon. The pilot of a small firefighting plane has been killed in eastern Oregon, according to officials.

Forest fires in Canada

Neighboring Canada is also affected by the flames caused by the intense heat: part of the town of Jasper, located in the national park of the same name, was destroyed in a devastating forest fire in western Canada on Thursday. The fire, popular among tourists, reached the city on Wednesday evening after spreading rapidly.