Firefighters battle massive blaze in California’s Central Valley

More than 6,000 firefighters are combating the largest wildfire in the U.S., now recorded as California’s fourth-largest ever.

As reported by Reuters, the Park Fire, burning approximately 100 miles north of Sacramento, started on July 24 and has since scorched over 400,000 acres.

Despite some thunderstorms, there was little relief for firefighters facing 100-degree Fahrenheit heat and 25 mph winds.

Christopher Young, a spokesperson for Cal Fire, said: “We had some thunderstorms that just brought us down-drafts, that’s a problem. Lightning is a factor we worry about.”

Impact of the Park Fire on communities

The fire, allegedly started by an arsonist, has destroyed more than 560 homes and structures, prompting the evacuation of over 4,000 residents.

A 42-year-old man has been charged with arson and is being held without bail.

One evacuee, Jim Young of Red Bluff, spent eight days at a wilderness trailhead with his dog.

He shared: “We just found out we can go home. Our property is safe. So many lost everything. But me and Sparky can go home now.”

Challenges in containing the wildfire

The rugged terrain in the affected area makes it difficult for firefighters to reach the fire lines, sometimes taking up to three hours.

Helicopters are being used to transport firefighters and supplies to the front lines, where some will stay for days to combat the blaze.

The Park Fire was 27% contained as of Saturday.

The intense wildfire season has raised concerns about stretching firefighting resources thin, prompting the National Interagency Fire Center to request assistance from Australian and New Zealand firefighters, who are set to arrive on August 7.