Nearly 30,000 people ordered to evacuate as devastating wildfire rages across Northern California
The IndependentSign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nearly 30,000 people have been evacuated from their homes in Northern California as an enormous wildfire rips through the region amid a sweltering heatwave on the US west coast. open image in gallery Helicopters try to douse the flames in a forested area of Butte County on Tuesday night Oroville, home to 20,000 people, declared a state of emergency on Tuesday night after the fire destroyed several homes. open image in gallery The fire has engulfed houses, vehicles and nearby forested areas High temperatures have made the situation more challenging as Cal Fire asked the public to take extra precautions. open image in gallery Nearly 1,500 emergency personnel are involved in operations to put out the fire Authorities warned of consequences for any illegal use of fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday on Thursday.