Emergency declared in southern Mexico as forest fires rage

Mexico City, May 12 (AP) Authorities declared emergencies in 11 municipalities in the southern Mexico state of Oaxaca due to raging forest fires, as high temperatures and dry conditions plague much of the country. Forest fires were also reported Saturday in popular weekend retreats near the capital, such as Valle de Bravo and Tepoztlan, where the archaeological zone was closed. And in the Pacific state of Jalisco, more than 300 firefighters attempted to stamp out five blazes outside Mexico's second-biggest city, Guadalajara.

The fires have impinged on life in the capital as well, with Mexico City officials suggesting Friday that residents close windows and place wet rags below doors to prevent smoke inhalation. The National Forest Commission says more than 100,000 acres of forest were destroyed by fire this year through March alone. (AP)

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