NewzVille International
Wildfires tore through California and Oregon on Monday, triggering mass evacuations and emergency declarations across both states.
In California’s Napa County wine region, the Pickett Fire, which began on August 21, has spread to 6,803 acres with just 11% containment. The fire is threatening structures and vineyards, as more than 1,200 firefighters, 140 engines, and aerial support work to contain the blaze amid thick orange haze.
While some evacuation orders have been downgraded to warnings, Napa officials have declared a local emergency. The focus remains on protecting homes, and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Meanwhile, in Oregon’s Deschutes and Jefferson counties, the Flat Fire, also ignited on 21 August, has surged to nearly 22,000 acres and remains at 0% containment, placing more than 3,900 homes at risk.
Close to 4,000 residences are under evacuation notices. Fire crews have saved many homes using 2 VLATs, 8 SEATs, and additional resources. Air quality in the area has been labeled unhealthy, and the fire’s cause is being probed amid extreme heat conditions.
