California Wildfire Burns an Area Greater than Los Angeles
Thousands of Firefighters Battling the Largest Blaze of the Year
A wildfire of unprecedented proportions has left a swathe of devastation in its wake, scorching an area larger than the city of Los Angeles. In an official confirmation, it is known that the so-called Park Fire is currently the largest wildfire in California this year, being among the 100 other wildfires plaguing the country currently.
The increasing frequency of wildfires is directly attributed to the climbing mercury levels and persisting bone-dry conditions. Climate change is progressively exacerbating the heat levels thereby driving a spike in the frequency of lightning strikes in the western US region.
Thousands Placed Under Air Quality Alerts
Millions of inhabitants have been placed under strict air quality alerts across Northwestern US and Western Canada. The Park Fire, which started north of the state capital city, Sacramento, has so far engulfed more than 562 sq. miles (1,455 sq. km) of inland northern California, says the National Interagency Fire Center.
Several communities spanning numerous counties are under mandatory evacuation orders and warnings. Even though no injuries or fatalities have been reported, many structural assets have suffered extensive damage.
The Battle Against the Blaze Continues
The blaze has blanketed the sky with dense smoke, obstructing visibility. As of the latest updates, a force of 4,000 firefighters is actively battling the Park Fire. Given the severity of the situation, additional reinforcements have been summoned.
Dry Conditions and Wind Speeds Spell More Trouble
The National Weather Service warns that the prevailing dry conditions coupled with gusty winds signify an escalating fire hazard.
Predictions of Cooler Temperatures
Wide-ranging warnings have also been issued for Idaho, Montana, Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, and other parts of California. Cooler temperatures are forecasted for mid-week but it does not imply that the existing fires will be extinguished, caution meteorologists.
Origins of the Park Fire
The Park Fire was sparked off on Wednesday due to an act of arson, wherein a burning car was deliberately pushed into a ravine in Chico, and the perpetrator fled the scene. The accused was arrested the following day and is scheduled to appear in court soon.
