Wildfires

Wildfires - USA

The huge forest fire that broke out over two weeks ago in California has stopped spreading. Rain and cooler weather is coming to firefighters' aid.

The improved weather conditions mean that for the first time since the fire erupted on August 17 it did not grow overnight, signalling an important turning point in the battle against one of the largest fires in California history. According to the US Forest Service, the Rim Fire in Yosemite National Forest should be fully contained by September 20.

Almost 100,000 hectares of forest have been destroyed by the blaze, which has caused an estimated $US66 million of damage. The fire has claimed 111 structures, 11 of them homes. About 4500 structures are threatened. Some 5000 personnel and 20 helicopters are involved in the effort to stop the flames spreading.

Wildfires continue to rage through Portugal

About 700 firefighters continued to struggle to contain wildfires across Portugal after a period of calm was interrupted by fresh suspected arson attacks.