United States: Wildfires ongoing in six western states July 11 /update 1

Event

Firefighters continue to battle a number of wildfires in six western states as of Tuesday, July 11. California is experiencing some of the worst fires and more than 6000 firefighters have been deployed across the state. The Alamo Fire in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties has burned nearly 29,000 acres and is about 45 percent contained. At least four people have been injured by the fire and more than 40 buildings destroyed, with another 5500 buildings under threat. In central Tulare county, the Schaeffer Fire has burned almost 15,000 acres and is only 11 percent contained. There are at least 15 wildfires ongoing in the state. 

In Nevada, firefighters are dealing with 14 active wildfires, with some being contained on Monday, July 10, including near the city of Sparks. A state of emergency has been declared in Arizona, which is experiencing 20 blazes in the southeastern parts the state, near Tucson and Phoenix. Firefighters contained a wildfire in Montana on July 10 but the area remains under red flag warnings, which indicate hot and dry conditions that could hinder efforts. There are also at least seven fires ongoing in Washington and Oregon.

Context

At least 8000 people were forced to evacuate on Sunday, July 9, from various areas in California. A fire at a power station led to a mass blackout in Los Angeles on July 8, affecting 140,000 people; power has since been restored.

Wildfires are common in the American West during the hot and dry summer and early autumn months. Rugged terrain and intense dry heat often exacerbate difficulties in controlling fires.

Advice

Individuals are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas affected by the wildfires, to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and to keep abreast of the situation via official notices and media reports.