Thousands of firefighters were attempting to contain the original Palisades fire, which has burnt nearly 16,000 acres, and seven others across southern California which threaten to destroy more homes and lives as strong winds scattered embers.

A fast-moving fire in the Hollywood Hills which erupted on Wednesday night has produced more evacuation orders for Los Angeles residents as fire crews battled three other major blazes that have killed at least five people.

U.S. leaders paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter -- who had the longest and most admired post-presidency in history -- as he laid in state at the U.S. Capitol this week ahead of his funeral today.

The UK&s opposition Conservative Party lost a vote in parliament yesterday calling for a national inquiry into so-called child grooming gangs.