Nearly 12,000 firefighters are battling about two dozen major fires and complexes across California. Since the lightning siege started August 15, there have been nearly 12,000 lightning strikes in the state. Since then, there have been more than 560 new wildfires, most of which have been contained thanks to aggressive firefighting. Those fires have burned over 771,000 acres in total. Ernest Figueroa has more information on current fire conditions and how you can be ready in the event of a fire…
As we move into the weekend, fire danger remains elevated with a few holdover lightning ignitions still possible. A warming trend is likely. Gusty winds are expected in the eastern Sierra Mountain areas, elevating the fire danger. Fire officials are monitoring the weather closely as lightning is expected to return Sunday night through Tuesday across Northern California. Since January 1, 2020, CAL FIRE has responded to over 5,600 wildfires. The recent spike in wildfire activity is an important reminder for residents to take steps to prevent sparking a wildfire. Having an evacuation plan, a supply kit, and important paperwork will make it easier when it is time to GO. Remember, one less spark means one less wildfire. Learn more at www.ReadyForWildfire.org.
