OROVILLE, CALIFORNIA – Firefighters in Butte County are gearing up for another scorching day as they battle the Thompson Fire, which has triggered thousands of evacuations, injured firefighters, and razed numerous structures. The blaze ignited near Cherokee and Thompson Flat Cemetery roads on July 2, spreading rapidly and prompting expanded evacuation orders, including parts of Oroville.
Cal Fire’s latest report on Thursday morning indicated that the number of acres charred has remained stable for the past 12 hours, suggesting a possible containment of the fire. However, with triple-digit temperatures forecasted for the day, the risk of further spread remains high. Firefighters are diligently staying hydrated and prepared for any escalation in fire activity.
Following a declaration of a local emergency by city officials on Tuesday, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that California had secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant to aid in suppressing the Thompson Fire. Newsom further declared a state of emergency for the fire, emphasizing the state’s commitment to supporting impacted communities with all available resources.
In response to the emergency, the California Attorney General’s Office issued a reminder that price gouging during states of emergency is prohibited by law, with prices not permitted to exceed 10% of pre-declared emergency levels. Any instances of suspected price gouging can be reported to law enforcement.
Events planned for the Fourth of July in Oroville have been canceled, and the Lake Oroville Recreation Area will remain closed until at least Friday. A temporary ban on the use of Safe-and-Sane fireworks has also been put in place.
As of Thursday morning, Cal Fire reported that the Thompson Fire has scorched 3,568 acres, with containment measures in place to prevent further spread. Unfortunately, the blaze has destroyed four structures, with over 12,000 still at risk. The efforts of nearly 2,000 first responders are focused on controlling the fire.
Evacuation orders impacting around 28,000 residents remain in effect for several communities in the region, with shelters set up at designated locations. While some evacuation orders have been downgraded to warnings, residents are advised to remain vigilant due to the unpredictable nature of the fire.
With dangerous heat and north winds fueling the fire, authorities urge residents to heed evacuation orders and stay informed about the ongoing situation. The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning due to favorable conditions for wildfire spread, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
In these challenging times, it is crucial for residents to stay prepared, informed, and vigilant as wildfires continue to pose a threat across California. Stay tuned for further updates and safety guidelines as the situation unfolds in Butte County.