At least 10 people died in Siberian wildfires

Devastating wildfires in Russia's Khakassia republic in southern Siberia claimed lives of at least 10 people, a spokeswoman for regional authorities told RIA Novosti Monday, according to Sputnik.

“According to preliminary data, at least ten people were killed [due to the fires]. All the details are currently specified,” Irina Emelyanova said.

The current wave of wildfires in Khakassia began on Sunday, with the fire spreading quickly due to strong winds.

At 1 p.m. local time (6:00 GMT) a state of emergency was declared in the republic.