Footage shows a Boeing 747 Super Tanker flying through terrifying orange clouds as the River fire in Monterey County, California continues to burn.

Hundreds of firefighters were battling to contain the blaze which started from a lightning strike on the dry hillside.

Fire chiefs said the blaze was around 10 per cent contained and had spread across more than 500 acres by 6 pm on Sunday evening. More than 30 structures were at risk.

Crews responded with fire trucks and a plane dumping red fire retardant powder on the inferno.

Monterey County Sheriff said: ''We are making mandatory evacuations for all of Pine Canyon Road. Evacuation warnings are in place for Berry and Indian Springs Road.''

The footage was filmed on Sunday (August 16).