A state of emergency is declared across southern California as more than 1,500 firefighters battle at least 12 blazes across the US state, including one near the city of Irvine.

Malibu Presbyterian Church was one of several local landmarks razed in a blaze that hit the seaside city.

About 1,000 firefighters were called to the blaze at Malibu, home to many wealthy celebrities.

Castle Kashan was also destroyed. Built in the 1970s, it was the home of local philanthropist Lilly Lawrence.

The ground is parched after a record summer heatwave that caused wildfires across large swathes of the western US, from northern Washington state all the way south to New Mexico.

Air crews have been called in to dump water and fire retardant in forests across the state.

The Malibu blaze is thought to have been caused by a power cable that blew over in fierce winds.

Hurricane-force winds are fanning the blazes, and they are not expected to ease until mid-week.