Our amazing planet.

Raging Western Wildfires in Photos

Copter drop

Helicopter drops water on trees.

(Image credit: U.S. Forest Service)

A helicopter wets down foliage near the High Park fire to give firefighters some cover on June 9, 2012.

Fire in the trees

Fire in the trees

(Image credit: U.S. Forest Service)

Fire spreading between trees in the Little Sand fire on June 16. Dry, dead wood from recent drought allows this to happen.

Hosing it down

Firefighters battle the High Park fire on June 9, 2012.

(Image credit: U.S. Forest Service)

Firefighters battle the High Park fire on June 9, 2012.

Smoke over the water

Smoke rises above a lake in the Little Sand fire near Durango, Colo. on May 28, 2012.

(Image credit: Archuleta County Emergency Services)

Smoke rises above a lake in the Little Sand fire near Durango, Colo. on May 28, 2012.

Poco fire blazes

Brush burns in the Poco fire on June 14, 2012.

(Image credit: U.S. Forest Service)

Brush burns in the Poco fire on June 14, 2012.

The morning after

orning after the Hill Fire, on June 24, 2012, in Los Padres National Forest near Goleta, Calif.

(Image credit: Little Tujunga Hot Shots)

orning after the Hill Fire, on June 24, 2012, in Los Padres National Forest near Goleta, Calif.

Live Science Staff
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.