Butte County, California, is currently facing a wildfire that started on Tuesday, prompting evacuation orders and warnings for residents, including parts of the city of Oroville. The city of Oroville declared a local emergency as of 7:30 p.m. due to the Thompson Fire. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that California has received a Fire Management Assistance Grant to support efforts in suppressing the Thompson Fire.
The blaze, known as the Thompson Fire, is burning near Cherokee and Thompson Flat Cemetery roads near Oroville, with Cal Fire reporting a significant increase in its size to 2,136 acres as of 5:20 p.m. Crews are focused on containing the fire and protecting structures, with the Kelly Ridge area being a primary concern. Road closures have been implemented, with State Route 162 in Oroville closed at Kelly Ridge Road due to the fire.
AlertCalifornia cameras captured a large plume of smoke visible since the fire initially ignited around 11:45 a.m. on July 2. Meteorologists noted that the north breeze is pushing the smoke south into the Valley, although the extent of structural damage remains unknown at this time.
Evacuation orders have been issued by the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, affecting around 13,000 residents in Oroville, Cherokee, Oroville Northeast, Kelly Ridge, and Hurleton. Evacuation warnings are also in place, urging residents to be prepared to leave in case conditions worsen.
Shelters have been set up at the Oroville Church of the Nazarene and the Gridley Fairgrounds. The fire poses a significant threat amid triple-digit heat and north winds, heightening the risk of rapid spread. Moreover, road closures and evacuation orders underscore the urgency of the situation and the need for residents to prioritize their safety.
As the Thompson Fire continues to unfold, authorities are working diligently to contain the blaze and ensure the well-being of those affected. The ongoing challenges posed by wildfires in California highlight the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of such natural disasters.