California wildfires: Thousands evacuated as Lake Elsinore threatened

[BhooTh]

More than 21,000 people have been evacuated from the path of a fast-moving wildfire in Southern California.

The mandatory evacuation orders were issued as the blaze, dubbed the Holy fire, threatened homes around Lake Elsinore in Orange County.

The fire, one of several across the state, has destroyed more than 19,000 acres of forest north of San Diego.

Meanwhile, a man suspected of starting the Holy fire has appeared in court accused of arson.

Forrest Clark made several outbursts during the hearing in Orange County, at times refusing to show his face, local media reported.

His case was adjourned until 17 August and bail set at $1m (£783,000), at which point Mr Clark interjected: "I can handle a million (dollars) right now, easily."