California is once again facing the devastating impact of wildfires, with three major fires raging across the US West. The largest of these fires, known as the Park Fire, has exploded in size and threatens thousands of homes in Butte, Plumas, Tehama and Shasta counties. The fire has already destroyed over 130 structures and forced evacuations for residents in multiple counties.
The intensity of the Park Fire has led to comparisons to the devastating Camp Fire that occurred in 2018, which killed 85 people and destroyed over 11,000 homes. The cause of the fire was arson, with a suspect being arrested early Thursday morning.
The fires come as California continues to experience a heatwave and bone-dry conditions that have made it difficult for firefighters to contain the blazes. Governor Gavin Newsom has declared states of emergency in Plumas County due to the Gold Complex Fire and in Butte and Tehama counties due to the Park Fire.
Evacuation orders have been issued for multiple counties and zones, including Butte County (BUT-CH-120, BUT-CNE-312-A, BUT-CNE-317, BUT-COH-250, BUT-COH-251, BUT_FR series and INS series), Tehama County (TEH series), and Shasta County. Evacuation centers have been set up in Chico at Neighborhood Church and the equestrian center at Rolling Hills is accepting horses and cattle.
The fires have also led to significant structure losses, with over 130 structures destroyed by the Park Fire alone. The fires are a reminder of the importance of being prepared for emergencies and staying informed about evacuation orders.
