Wildfires prompt California evacuations as crews battle Oregon and Idaho fires stoked by lightning 

Rapidly growing wildfires have prompted evacuations in Northern and Southern California, while some Oregon residents have been cleared to return home after a thunderstorm dropped welcome rain but also potentially dangerous lightning on the largest active blaze in the United States. Another fast-moving wildfire forced thousands to abandon a town in Canada. In California, the Park Fire near Chico has quickly spread to more than 70 square miles, and was only 3% contained early Thursday. Oregon's governor has activated National Guard troops to the Durkee Fire, which merged with another large blaze and is burning near the Idaho state line. Skies filled with smoke and haze have raised air quality concerns in western U.S. states and Canadian provinces.