A massive and deadly wildfire in the rugged mountains overlooking Los Angeles is 56 per cent contained, fire officials said today.
The so-called Station Fire is the largest in the history of Los Angeles County and one of the 10 biggest ever in California. It has burned 157,220 acres (63,600 hectares) - an area larger than the city of Chicago.
Two firefighters died battling the blaze, which is believed to have been deliberately set. It also has destroyed 78 homes and damaged 13 others since starting on August 26th.
Because was the cause of the fire was ruled arson, the deaths of the firefighters are considered homicides.
California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has put up a $100,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the person or people responsible for sparking the fire.
Reuters