California wildfire missing soars 631, death toll reaches 63
The number of missing or unaccounted for people in the northern Californiawildfire soared to 631 on Thursday, authorities said, an increase of more than 500 since Wednesday, The Guardian informs.
The news came as the death toll in the Camp fire increased to 63 after authorities recovered the remains of an additional seven people.
The remains were found outdoors and in the rubble of homes and cars in the towns of Paradise, Magalia and Concow.
One victim was found in a overturned charred car in Paradise.
More than 9,700 homes have been destroyed, along with a total of 118 multi-family residences and 290 businesses. The fire has destroyed 11,862 structures.
The fire grew to 140,000 acres, or 219 sq miles, Thursday as crews managed to push containment up to 40%. Authorities were able to lift evacuation orders in some areas near Chico and Forest Ranch.
Wind conditions are expected to worsen this weekend.