On Park Fire

The Park Fire in California is making both state and national headlines, now ranking as the 7th largest wildfire in the state's recorded history. Spanning four counties—Butte, Plumas, Shasta, and Tehama—the fire, caused by arson, has spread to over 353,194 acres. It continues to burn actively due to receptive fuel beds and the warm, dry, and windy conditions, with significant expansion in Butte (over 52,850 acres) and Tehama (300,344 acres).

The Fire Department has announced the latest road closures, including portions of Highway 32, Highway 99, Highway 36, and Cohasset Road, which are affecting potential evacuation routes and commuter traffic in surrounding communities. In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency for Butte and Tehama counties and secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant from FEMA. As of this report, containment of the Park Fire is at approximately 12%.