The uncontrolled Park Fire became the seventh largest megafire in California history

by time news

2024-07-28 19:37:41

More than 142,000 hectares were eaten in three days. The “Park Fire”, an uncontrollable fire in northern California, became this Sunday one of the largest recorded in this state in the western United States. According to the Cal Fire state agency, more than 4,000 people had to leave the small town of Chico, in a rural and mountainous area, about 145 kilometers north of Sacramento, the capital of this state.

“The extreme conditions of this fire continue to be a challenge for firefighters,” the agency said on X. It is the largest fire to hit California this summer and, therefore, the seventh largest megafires most in the history of the State. For the moment, it is only 10% controlled, despite the efforts of 3,700 people, more than ten helicopters and several planes, according to figures updated by the agency.

The “Park Fire” on the rise

“The fire continues to burn very strongly due to the high terrain and winds (…) which cause strong growth,” Cal Fire said. missions when conditions permit,” he added.

The fire broke out Wednesday near Chico, in Butte County, and within hours destroyed a large area and neighboring Tehama County. According to the latest information, 20 buildings have been destroyed, also revised down the initial estimate of 137 structures damaged. Figures which should evolve as authorities are able to better assess damage on the ground.

The fire generated a large column of dense gray smoke which also reached neighboring areas. And in Oregon, the Durkee Fire, which broke out earlier this month, destroyed 290,000 hectares and is 50% contained, the state forestry agency said.

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