In Pictures

Wildfires in the USA

Flames continue to creep closer to the gambling capital of the world, Las Vegas.

Leaving Las Vegas — Fires continue to rage in the southwest of the USA, threatening the city of Las Vegas.

Wildfires continue to rage in the southwestern states of the USA.

Residents of Las Vegas, Nevada, have watched the smoke billowing over the city for the last few days.

Hundreds of firefighters are battling the blaze, fully aware of the risks involved; 19 firemen were killed fighting a blaze in Arizona less than two weeks earlier.

Smoke gets in your eyes — Fires are a common occurrence in the summer months, so for clarity they are given names.

Firestarter — The fire near Vegas is named the Carpenter 1 fire, as it was ignited by a single lightning strike in the Carpenter Canyon.

Clouds of smoke — Nearly 20,000 acres (80 kilometres squared) have been burnt.

The unforgettable fire — More than 800 firefighters are battling the wildfire, but it is still remains out of control.

Fire, fire burning bright — The fire crested on the peak of Mount Charleston on Thursday, prompting the evacuation of 520 people as it began descending the east side of the mountain, about 35 miles northwest of Las Vegas.

Great balls of fire — Fires are also raging in California, where over 100 mountain cabins have been destroyed, with many more still at risk.

Fallen heros — In Arizona, balloons were released into the sky in memory of the 19 firefighters who died fighting the Yarnell Fire.