Northern California

Northern California Wildfire Expands, Now 4th-Largest in State History

The blaze is 24 percent contained, but thunderstorms could bring erratic winds and lightning. And the heat will worsen next week.
Northern California Wildfire Expands, Now 4th-Largest in State History
Firefighters battle the Park fire near Chico, Calif., on Aug. 2, 2024. Courtesy of Cal Fire
Jill McLaughlin
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The Park fire in Northern California has grown to more than 624 square miles, becoming the fourth-largest wildfire in state history, and has destroyed 542 homes and other structures.

Nearly 6,400 firefighters were battling the massive fire Friday, Aug. 2, reaching 24 percent containment by the afternoon.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.