Los Angeles -
California authorities arrested a suspect on Thursday in connection with a wildfire that has scorched more than 28 730 hectares and was threatening more than 2 000 homes.
The King fire in northern California's Eldorado National Forest broke out on Saturday evening near the community of Pollock Pines, east of Sacramento.
Wayne Allen Huntsman, 37, of Pollock Pines, was booked on a charge of arson, according to the Eldorado County officials, who suspect him of setting the blaze intentionally.
The fire was only five percent contained.
More than 3 500 firefighters were fighting blaze amid mandatory evacuation orders for more than 3 000 residents.
Damage in the King Fire was estimated at more than $10-million.
Currently there are 12 major fires raging in California, which is in the midst of one of the worst droughts in the state's history.
California Governor Jerry Brown has declared a state of emergency for two counties, including Eldorado County, hardest hit by the fires.
The declaration makes money, personnel and equipment more easily available to local governments to help fight the blazes. - Sapa-dpa