US: Mendocino Complex Fire spreads in northern California July 30

Event

Two fires known as the Mendocino Complex Fire are spreading in Mendocino and Lake counties in northern California as of Monday, July 30. The River Fire in Mendocino county has burned approximately 8500 hectares (21,000 acres) near Hopland and west of the town of Lakeport (Lake county). In Lake county, the Ranch Fire has burned over 14,100 hectares (35,000 acres) southwest of Potter Valley and north of Highway 20. According to officials, the blaze is moving further into Lake county and the Mendocino National Forest. Both fires are only 5 percent contained as of Monday afternoon (local time). Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for over 14,000 residents in Mendocino and Lake counties, including in Lakeport and other communities near Clear Lake. Around 10,000 homes are being threatened by the blaze.

The blaze is expected to spread over the coming days, aided by expected hot and dry weather and an abundance of dry vegetation. According to officials, further evacuations are possible in the coming days. Up-to-date information can be found on the CalFire website.

Context

The River and Ranch fires both started on Friday, July 27. Wildfires are frequent in California from May through November.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas near the wildfire, adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and monitor the situation. Children and those with respiratory illnesses are advised to limit outdoor activity.