Wildfires raging across the western United States and Canada have caused millions of people to be put under air quality alerts on Sunday. Firefighters are battling the flames, including the largest wildfire in California this year, known as the Park Fire.
The Park Fire has burned an area larger than Los Angeles, darkening the sky with smoke and causing poor air quality in parts of the northwestern U.S. and western Canada. The fire spans over 550 square miles of Northern California.
Cooler temperatures and higher humidity on Saturday helped firefighters make some progress, increasing containment from zero to 12%. The fire has been compared to the 2018 Camp Fire that devastated Paradise, killing 85 people and destroying 11,000 homes.
Evacuation warnings were in place for Paradise and other Butte County communities on Sunday. Cal Fire operations section chief Jeremy Pierce provided some positive updates, stating that the fire’s southernmost front near Paradise was looking well. Crews are working to extinguish remaining hot spots and remove hazards over the next few days.
Over 4,000 firefighters are battling the Park Fire, assisted by helicopters and air tankers. The fire’s explosive growth has surprised many people, with reinforcements being brought in to relieve local firefighters who have been working tirelessly since the fire began.
In areas where the flames have subdued, signs of devastation are visible. Mailboxes and vehicles covered with fire retardant can be seen in Cohasset, while other locations show burned homes and vehicles.
In Southern California, around 2,000 people were evacuated due to a fire in the Sequoia National Forest. The fire, driven by winds, has consumed over 60 square miles in four days.
The National Weather Service issued a “red flag” warning for the region on Sunday due to dry fuels and strong winds, increasing the fire danger. Extreme fire conditions led by dead plants from previous rainfall are impacting several communities.
No fatalities have been reported in the Park and Borel fires yet. However, people ignoring evacuation orders are hindering firefighting efforts and increasing risks for everyone.
Crews are also making progress on fires in the Plumas National Forest. While cooler temperatures are expected, existing fires may not disappear entirely.
The Park Fire has destroyed at least 66 structures, with authorities expecting the number to rise as assessments continue. The fire was started by a man pushing a burning car into a gully.
Despite improved fire weather, conditions remain favorable for more fires to ignite. The National Weather Service warns of “red flag” conditions in several states as wildfires continue to burn across the West.
Multiple fires are still active, with climate change increasing lightning strikes and contributing to the current fire crisis.
Additional fires in Oregon and Idaho are being assessed, including the Gwen Fire, estimated at 41 square miles as of Sunday.
Reported by Rodriguez from San Francisco. Contributions from AP reporters across the U.S.
