Officials in Colorado have now confirmed the grim toll of one death and more than 340 homes destroyed, as the most devastating wildfire in the US state’s history rages on.

Some 35,000 people have been evacuated from areas around the city of Colorado Springs. Entire neighbourhoods have been reduced to ash.

Terry Rector, who has lost his house to the flames, told reporters he and other victims were working together on how to face the future.

“We’re exchanging ideas on whether we rebuild, insurance coverage issues, what our plans are, plus we are friends, we are very close friends, we want to help each other out,” he said.

Victims can also expect help form outside their own communities.

A state of emergency has been declared and President Barack Obama was also scheduled to visit the disaster area and meet emergency services personnel.

The battle to bring the blaze under control continues on land and from the air. However, with at least one person missing and many more homes threatened, the worst may not yet be over.

SOURCE: euronews