The Park Fire, burning in northern California, has grown to over 400,000 acres and is now the 12th largest wildfire in state history. Firefighters are facing challenges from hot and dry conditions, and over 640 structures have been destroyed.
As of Monday morning, the Park Fire had burned 402,042 acres, or 628,000 square miles, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire). The blaze is currently 34% contained, but firefighters are facing challenges from hot and dry conditions.
The Park Fire started on July 24th, when 42-year-old Ronnie Dean Stout II was allegedly seen pushing a vehicle that was on fire into a gully near the Alligator Hole in upper Bidwell Park, sending it down a 60-foot embankment. Witnesses claim Stout was seen calmly leaving the area by blending in with other citizens who were in the area and fleeing the rapidly evolving fire.
California's Park Fire Now 12th Largest in State History
Since the fire started, about 640 structures have been destroyed, and 52 other structures have been damaged between Butte and Tehama counties, according to Cal Fire. Evacuations have been ordered for several communities in both counties, and the Red Cross has opened shelters for those who have been displaced.
Fire officials said Monday morning that a large dry air mass with increasing temperatures was moving into the area, which will challenge crews on the northeast corner of the inferno.
California's Park Fire Now 12th Largest in State History
The Park Fire is being fought from the ground as well as from the air. There are currently about 6,600 crew members battling the fire, along with 44 helicopters, 536 fire engines, 196 bulldozers, 154 water tenders, and 132 crews, Cal Fire notes on its website.
On Saturday, the Park Fire burned its way into California's history books as the fourth-largest fire on record. It is now the 12th largest wildfire in state history.
California's Park Fire Now 12th Largest in State History
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) is urging residents to be prepared for wildfires and to take steps to protect their homes and families. Cal Fire recommends creating a defensible space around your home, having an evacuation plan in place, and being aware of the fire danger in your area.
For more information on how to prepare for wildfires, visit the Cal Fire website at www.fire.ca.gov.
California's Park Fire Now 12th Largest in State History
