27 Jul 2018 | 05:58 AM UTC
US: Northern California fire crosses Sacramento River, threatening Redding
Wildfire in northern California threatens Redding; one killed, three injured; evacuations underway
Event
The so-called Carr fire in northern California's Shasta County rapidly expanded in the evening (local time) of Thursday, July 26. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection announced that the blaze had jumped the Sacramento River and crossed into the city limits of Redding. Emergency personnel have ceased structure and containment efforts to focus on evacuations. One bulldozer operator was killed, and three firefighters injured, according to fire officials late Thursday evening. Power outages and road closures are likely.
The Carr fire has tripled in size in two days and consumed an area of 11,300 hectares (28,000 acres) and is six percent contained. The fire began on Monday, July 23, after a vehicle malfunctioned near the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
Up-to-date information can be found on the CalFire website.
Context
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.
