Janice R. Andrews
A dangerous extended heat wave is currently affecting California and is predicted to persist until next week. Numerous new wildfires are being fought by firefighters around the state; some of them are dangerous enough to require evacuations.
Oroville is Under Attack:
The most worrying fire is in Oroville, where thousands of people have been evacuated and numerous houses have been destroyed. A state of emergency has been proclaimed by Governor Gavin Newsom due to threats against “structures, homes, critical infrastructure, and health and congregate care facilities.”
In order to support the affected areas, Newsom said, “We are using every tool at our disposal to combat this fire and will continue to work closely with our local and federal partners.”
Thompson Fire: An Increasing Danger:
Red flag and high heat advisories are in effect as fire fighters battle the Thompson Fire. There is a forecast for temperatures as high as 109 degrees and wind gusts as high as 30 mph. The fire remained 0% contained as of Wednesday morning, having spread over 3,002 acres and posing a threat to about 230 properties. The extent of the injuries sustained by the four firefighters is unknown.
Destruction and Evacuations:
Many thousands of people in and around Oroville and Butte County have been placed under evacuation orders. Social media and local news sources display pictures of burning buildings, but it’s unclear how many specific buildings are in the exact state of damage.
Heat Wave Spreads:
The southern Plains and the Mid-Atlantic are also being impacted by the deadly and record-breaking heat wave, in addition to California. 110 million people in 21 states are under heat advisories, watches, or warnings, according to the Weather Prediction Center of the National Weather Service. In certain places, the temperature can rise as high as 115 degrees.
Danger of Fire in Northern CaliforniaL:
Because of the winds, low humidity, and high temperatures, a red flag warning is still in effect for Northern California. Tuesday saw the start of nine new fires, the largest of which was the Thompson Fire. The Airline Fire in San Benito County, which is 55% contained, was the next largest.
Power Outages and Safety Measures:
Initiating its first power outage for public safety this year, Pacific Gas & Electric Co. affected more than 2,000 customers in eight counties. The purpose of these shutoffs is to stop the utility’s equipment from starting fires when the weather is hazardous.
Additional Fires in the State:
The Toll Fire in Napa County has spread to 50 acres, resulting in multiple warnings and orders to evacuate. Located in eastern San Diego County, the McCain Fire has burned 1,362 acres and is 50% containment. In Fresno County, crews are also battling the Basin Fire, which has burned 13,819 acres and is 26% contained.
Experts on Climate Change Warn of Increasing Fire Season:
Climate scientist Daniel Swain of UCLA issued a warning, stating that scorching temperatures, dry fuels, and dry winds may cause California’s fire season to intensify during the course of the next week.
Safety Warnings and Advice:
Cal Fire advises residents to avoid activities that could spark wildfires, such as parking on dry grass or using equipment during the hottest parts of the day.
Stay tuned for more updates as California battles this ongoing crisis.
