Massive fires in the Siberian region of Khakassia have destroyed almost 1,000 homes in over 20 towns and villages. Five people have been killed, while over 120 have received injuries. People setting fire to grasslands have caused the blazes.

Strong gusts of wind have aggravated the situation in the Republic of Khakassia, located in the south of Eastern Siberia, on Sunday afternoon. This has prompted the local authorities to declare a state of emergency.