71 killed in California wildfires

International Desk: More than 1,000 people have been reported missing in a California wildfire which has destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 71, local officials have said.

The death toll rose from 63 on Friday, eight days after the Camp Fire broke out in northern California.

However, the sharp increase in the missing list - from 631 to 1,011 in 24 hours - may not be accurate.

Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea said it was possible it contained duplications.
"I want you to understand that this is a dynamic list," he told reporters.

"The information I am providing you is raw data and we find there is the likely possibility that the list contains duplicate names."

Authorities have also warned that some of those on the list may be fine but unaware people are trying to find them, or unable to call. However, there could also be people among the dead who no-one has yet realised are missing.

The fire - the deadliest in the state's history - has destroyed 142,000 acres (57,000 ha), including most of the town of Paradise, home to 27,000 people.

Rescue workers, aided by cadaver dogs, were continuing to comb what little remained of the town on Friday.

In total, some 47,000 people have been told to evacuate, with those who have fled the fire being houses in emergency shelters, as well as with friends and family, while others are camping.

President Donald Trump is due to travel to California on Saturday to survey the damage and meet those affected.

Source: BBC


risingbd/Nov 17, 2018/Mukul