Catastrophic Wildfires Continue To Spread In California With Approximately Two Million Acres Burned So Far; Ways You Can Help
Karen Lapizco
Caldore Fire Photo By: Josh Edelson/AFP
As Californiabegins another devastating fire season, the U.S. Forest Service has announced the temporary closure of all national forests throughout the state. The decision was implemented to ensure the safety of the public and firefighters throughout the ongoing and unpredictable wildfire crisis.
“We do not make this decision lightly, but this is the best choice for public safety,” said Regional Forester Jennifer Eberlien, in a statement. “It is especially hard with the approaching Labor Day weekend, when so many people enjoy our national forests.”
The affected forests will remain closed until September 17th,but could be extended if necessary. The order does not affect the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, which is not in the Pacific Southwest Region.
There are currently 14,341 firefightersbattling 15 active large wildfires in California. In total, as of last week, approximately twomillion acres have burned throughout the state.
Photo by Josh Edelson/AFP
The following are the four largest wildfires currently burning:
The Dixie Fire
The Dixie Fire in Butte, Plumas, Tehama, Shasta, and Lassen County has burned 917,579acresand is 59% contained. The fire has destroyed 688 homes.
The Plumas Bank has started The Dixie Fire Fund to help provide emergency support and community disaster relief to people impacted by the wildfires. If you would like to help, please consider making a donation HERE!
For the most recent fire and evacuation information in the areas affected by the Dixie Fire, CLICK HERE!
Photo by Josh Edelson/AFP
The Caldor Fire
The Caldor Firein El Dorado and Amador County has burned 216,646 acresand is currently 49% contained. The fire has destroyed 700 homes.
If you find injured wildlife in the affected areas, please note the location and call the Wildlife Disaster Networkat 1-800-942-6459.
To help the Lake Tahoe community, who have been severely affected by the Caldor Fire, please donate to the El Dorado Community Foundation,HERE!Donations can also be made to El Dorado County Animal Services,HERE!
The Monument Fire
The Monument Firein Trinity County has burned 184,142 acresand is currently 41% contained.
The French Fire
TheFrench Firein Kern County has burned 26,702acresand is currently52% contained.
A man plays the violin while waiting in traffic to evacuate. Photo by Josh Edelson/AFP
A GoFundMe has been started to help those who have lost their businesses, homes, and have been displaced by the Northern California wildfires. For more information on ways that you can help, CLICK HERE!
