Wildfire danger grows as major fires burn across U.S. and Europe
Firefighters are battling multiple large wildfires as extreme heat and dry conditions continue to fuel dangerous fire weather across the United States and parts of Europe.
(CNN)- Firefighters are battling multiple large wildfires as extreme heat and dry conditions continue to fuel dangerous fire weather across the United States and parts of Europe.
In California, officials are warning that high temperatures and the threat of lightning could increase wildfire activity in the coming days. The Elephant Fire in Northern California has grown rapidly since it was first reported Saturday, doubling in size since Sunday night.
As of Monday evening, the fire had burned more than 12,000 acres and was just 5% contained. Authorities say the blaze could threaten communities near the California-Nevada border, while smoke is expected to affect nearby areas, including Reno.
In Colorado, crews continue fighting the Aspen Acres Fire, which has burned nearly 99,000 acres and reached 36% containment. The wildfire has forced widespread evacuations and destroyed more than 800 structures.
Meanwhile, ongoing wildfires in Minnesota have prompted Governor Tim Walz to activate the National Guard to assist with firefighting efforts.
The wildfire threat extends beyond the United States. In France, firefighters are battling a large forest fire south of Paris as a deadly heat wave continues across parts of Europe. The blaze has burned more than three square miles of forest.
