California Under Siege: Multiple Wildfires Rage Amid Extreme Heat, Forcing Evacuations
California Under Siege: Multiple Wildfires Rage Amid Extreme Heat, Forcing Evacuations
California is battling a series of intensifying wildfires across the state today, fueled by an ongoing unseasonably hot and unstable air mass. The Pickett fire in Napa County has significantly expanded, forcing hundreds of residents in Calistoga to evacuate, while new blazes have ignited in the Angeles National Forest and other areas.
The Pickett fire, which started Thursday, has now scorched 4,690 acres with only 7% containment as of Saturday. Fire Chief Ryan Isham reported crews are working tirelessly to establish defense lines and anticipate increased activity due to rising temperatures. Despite the rapid spread, no structural damages or injuries have been reported.
Elsewhere, new fires have erupted across the region. The Little fire in Kern County burned 300 acres, and the Parks fire in Alameda County consumed 113 acres with 75% containment by Saturday. In the Angeles National Forest, lightning strikes ignited two blazes southwest of Little Rock, with a third fire starting near Table Mountain. No evacuation orders have been issued for these incidents, nor have any injuries been reported.
The National Weather Service has extended a red flag warning for parts of Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties until Sunday at 9 p.m., citing extreme fire behavior potential and temperatures ranging from 98 to 110 degrees. Critical fire warnings also remain in effect for Santa Clarita Valley, the San Gabriel Mountains, and Antelope Valley foothills until Saturday night.
Authorities are on high alert, with Governor Gavin Newsom deploying significant state resources, including fire engines, water tenders, bulldozers, and a helicopter, to Los Angeles in anticipation of further fire threats. Additionally, a high alert for thunderstorms has been issued for the Antelope Valley, warning residents of sudden strong winds, blowing dust, and dangerous lightning through Monday.
As the extreme heat warning persists through the weekend, L.A. County has opened cooling centers, and Mayor Karen Bass urges Angelenos to limit outdoor activity, check on neighbors, and stay cool to ensure safety amidst the challenging conditions.
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