California continues to battle catastrophic wildfires that destroyed thousands of structures and claimed the lives of several people. The blazes are still spreading and threatening the lives and property of hundreds of thousands of people.
Over the weekend, the Mendocino Complex Fire became the second largest wildfire in the history of California. This wildfire consists of the Ranch Fire and River Fire, which are burning around Clear Lake in Northern California.
According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL Fire), the Mendocino Complex Fire has already burned more than 273,000 acres and is 30 percent contained. The wildfire destroyed 78 residences and 68 other properties. It is threatening 9,300 structures. More than 3,700 firefighters are working to put out the fire.
Mendocino Complex Current Evacuation Map as of 8.5.18 / 9:11 a.m. #mendocinocomplex @MendoSheriff @lakecosheriffCA @mendocinonf @glenncountyoes pic.twitter.com/6oqZUcVGI4
— CAL FIRE Mendocino (@CALFIRE_MEU) August 5, 2018
In Shasta County, the Carr Fire killed its seventh victim on Saturday. A spokesman for the Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) Company said an apprentice lineman died in a vehicle-related accident on the western edge of the wildfire. The victim was part of the crew working in “dangerous terrain” to restore power in the area.
White House Approves Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for California
On Saturday, California Gov. Jerry Brown said the White House approved the state’s request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration.
