Fires continue to rage in the valley near Palm Springs. Early this afternoon, firefighters were protecting homes against flames driven by 25 mph winds when their engine was overtaken by the blaze. Three firemen are now confirmed dead as a result, with many of the personnel continuing to fight after pausing momentarily to come to grips with those who had just fallen.

The fire, driven by strong Santa Ana winds, has burned over 4,000 acres and has led to the evacuation of over 200 people. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

AP Photo by David Pardo