Wildfires destroy dozens of houses

Three wildfires driven by strong winds have destroyed dozens of houses near Los Angeles and claimed at least two lives.



More than 1,000 firefighters are now said to be battling the flames and thousands of people have been evacuated from areas north and west of the city.



California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared a state of emergency in two counties.



Southern California is vulnerable to wildfires between October and February when the dry Santa Ana winds blow in.