2024 - In pictures Destroyed buildings, charred cars, evacuated residents... California is facing the megafire "Park Fire", one of the largest fires in its history

The forest fire has so far caused the evacuation of 4,200 people, while more than 140,000 hectares of vegetation have been devastated in less than a week.

The blaze has already become the seventh most destructive wildfire in California history. The megafire “Park Fire” has destroyed more than 144,500 hectares in five days, according to estimates released Sunday, July 28 by the official Cal Fire agency. Some 4 000 firefighters were mobilized to try to contain it, in conditions that became increasingly difficult.

The fire has continued to grow since it started. Progress was made Saturday, with light winds and cool temperatures allowing firefighters to control 12 percent of the Park Fire. But fire activity has slowed “reinforced” The next day, due to more pronounced heat, stronger winds and uneven terrain, the firefighters lament.

The flames are engulfing a mountainous region about 90 miles (145 kilometers) from Sacramento, the state capital. At this point, 4,200 Butte County residents have been evacuated. Police arrested a 42-year-old man Thursday on suspicion of starting the fire by driving a burning car into a ravine.

In a dozen photos, franceinfo takes you closer to this megafire, day by day.