Arsonists are to blame for at least three of the raging fires in southern California that have so far claimed the lives of 20 people and destroyed more than 2,600 homes, authorities said.

WITH towering flames bearing down on southern California mountain towns, firefighters last night dug in to protect hundreds of homes while praying for more help from lower temperatures.

With towering flames bearing down on Southern California mountain towns, firefighters dug in to protect hundreds of homes today praying for help from lower temperatures.

THE hot Santa Ana wind that has been driving California’s most destructive wildfires in history was giving way to cooler, more humid conditions yesterday, but that did little to tame the blazing tide as crews fought to save more homes.

US police are currently hunting for boxer Mike Tyson after a young female fan claimed she was raped by the former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.