One dead in Mexico wildfire

Authorities find remains of a 62-year-old woman in the ashes of her burned-out home as wildfire in Mexico has now covered well over 41,140 acres.

The number of firefighters fighting a raging wildfire in the western US state of Colorado has now totaled 600, as officials report the death of one woman.

Up to 200 firefighters were ordered in to help reinforce the 400 already battling to contain the blaze northwest of Denver, along with aircraft, including five of the nine heavy air tankers available nationwide.

As the blaze spread to cover 41,140 acres (16,650 hectares) by late in the day yesterday, the authorities confirmed the death of a 62-year-old woman who had been reported missing and whose remains were found in the ashes of her burned-out home.

The blaze, dubbed the High Park Fire, broke out early Saturday near Fort Collins, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) northwest of Denver.

By Monday seven helicopters, five Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs), the five heavy air tankers and two other aircraft were involved in the operation.

The Colorado National Guard also provided two Blackhawk helicopters for use today either for transport or bucket drops depending on the need.

"We believe there are 100-plus structures that are damaged or destroyed. When I say structures, we don't know if they are homes, sheds or what," Larimer County Sheriff Justin Smith told reporters.

"Four hundred ground and engine crews are fighting the fire. We expect to have 500-600 working by the end of tomorrow."

The cause of the fire has been confirmed as lightning.