A wildfire that started near Oroville last week during California’s heat wave destroyed 13 homes and several other structures, according to state fire officials. The Thompson fire, which grew to 3,789 acres, was fueled by extreme heat and dry winds in Butte County. Cal Fire spokesperson Rick Carhart described the fire as “stubborn” due to the hot and windy conditions it faced. Despite being declared 100% contained on Monday, the ongoing heat wave could lead to more wildfires in the region.
In addition to the Thompson fire, the Vista fire is burning in the San Bernardino National Forest near Mt. Baldy and Wrightwood. This fire, which has burned 1,295 acres, grew significantly overnight and is challenging to contain due to the dense vegetation caused by a wet rainy season. Meteorologists have noted that the current heat wave is unprecedented, setting numerous high-temperature records across California and the Western United States.
Cities like Lancaster and Palmdale have experienced consecutive days of temperatures at or above 110 degrees, breaking previous records. Las Vegas is also expected to surpass its record for consecutive days above 110 degrees. Other areas, including Madera, Needles, and Palmdale, have recorded record highs, further highlighting the severity of the heat wave.
Meanwhile, a wildfire near Figueroa Mountain in Santa Barbara County has forced residents to evacuate their homes as authorities issued evacuation orders. The Lake fire, burning on the western edge of the Los Padres National Forest, has consumed 26,176 acres, making it the largest fire in California this year. Despite efforts to contain the fire, evacuation warnings have been expanded to communities in Los Olivos and Santa Ynez due to strong winds and high temperatures.
Firefighters are facing challenges in controlling the Lake fire, especially at night when the fire remains active on mountain ridges. The absence of the marine layer exacerbates the conditions, making it difficult for firefighters to contain the blaze. The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for the area, emphasizing the dangerous combination of high winds and extreme heat.
As wildfires continue to pose a threat across California, residents are urged to stay informed about evacuation orders and fire safety precautions. The efforts of firefighters and emergency response teams are crucial in mitigating the impact of these fires and protecting communities from further destruction. Stay updated on the latest developments and be prepared to take action in case of any emergencies related to wildfires.