Mass Evacuation of La Palma over Raging Forest Fire

Initial reports from the Southern tip of the Canary Island of La Palma suggest over 4 000 people have been evacuated after a forest fire broke out Saturday.

The Spanish government has confirmed the reports and said the flames are being fanned by strong winds.

Virtually all of the island's firefighting forces including six helicopters have been deployed to combat the blaze at three points around the town of Fuencaliente. The regional government has asked mainland Spain for help.

The Spanish Interior Ministry said Saturday that 52 people were evacuated by boat from an area known for rare Canary pine forests and vineyards.