United States: Various wildfires ongoing in California

Event

Various wildfires are ongoing across the state of California amid a heat wave. At least 8000 people were forced to evacuate on Sunday, July 9, from various areas. The most intense fires have been reported in Santa Barbara county, including the Alamo fire which was only 15 percent contained as of Sunday. Fires are also ongoing in San Luis Obispo, Yolo, and Butte counties. 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.

Context

Wildfires are common in California 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.