Park Fire Burns Over 360k Acres; Containment Reaches 12%, Many Evacuations Still in Effect
The wildfire that has come to be known as the Park Fire continues to blaze through Northstate counties, having already consumed over 360,000 acres of land. Firefighters reported a 12% containment of the fire as of Sunday night.
Mass Evacuations and Property Damage
The rapid spread of the fire has necessitated evacuations across multiple Northstate counties. According to initial aerial assessments carried out by Cal Fire, over 130 structures have been impacted by the Park Fire so far. Subsequent ground inspections confirmed the destruction of 100 structures, with 5 having sustained damage and a staggering 4,200 still under threat.
The lack of any reported injuries or deaths comes as some relief amidst the extensive property damage. As of Sunday night, Butte County and Tehama County lost 53,356 acres and 306,785 acres to the fire respectively.
Weather Conditions Fuel the Fire
The fire’s rapid spread was assisted in no small measure by steep terrains and high winds. In certain areas, it moved up to 5,000 acres per hour. The triple-digit temperatures coupled with gusty winds made the situation even more dire.
The fire began in Upper Bidwell Park, northeast of Chico, on July 24, swiftly spreading across the area. A man has since been arrested for allegedly starting the fire by pushing a burning car into a gully at Alligator Hole.
Firefighters Prioritize Human Lives and Property
While firefighters work hard to prevent the spread of the fire, their key priorities at this time are saving lives and protecting property. Amidst this crisis, thousands have been forced to evacuate their homes. Despite the immense cost, however, many have managed to save the lives of their animals. Butte and Tehama counties have been placed on a state of emergency, and resources from FEMA and nearby agencies are expected to arrive soon.
Evacuation Information
For updated evacuation information in Shasta, Tehama, and Plumas counties, residents are urged to check regularly for updates. Current evacuation orders in Butte County and Tehama County can also be accessed online. Evacuation warnings are likewise in effect in these counties.
Evacuation Shelters and Animal Shelters
Evacuees can find shelter at the Butte County Neighborhood Church and the Butte County Fairgrounds. Red Cross has a facility at Los Molinos Vet’s Hall in Tehama County. Shasta County residents can seek shelter at the Bella Vista Elementary School. Small and large animal shelters have also been set up in all three counties.
Road Closures and Power Outages
Several roads have been closed to assist fire containment efforts and aid in evacuation. Due to safety concerns, PG&E has shut down powerlines in and around the fire area leaving about 2,084 customers in Cohasset, Forest Ranch, Butte Meadows, and East Chico without power.
GoFundMe Campaign
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist those affected by the Northstate fires. Interested individuals are encouraged to donate to the fire victims.
Stay Connected
For the latest updates and more in-depth details about the Park Fire, residents and interested parties are asked to stay connected and check back frequently on the situation’s developing status.
