28 Jul 2018 | 05:34 AM UTC
US: Carr fire continues to spread in California July 27 /update 1
The Carr fire in Shasta county (northern California) continues to spread as of July 27; over 38,000 people evacuated
Event
Authorities have issued evacuation notices for thousands of residents in northern California as the Carr fire continues to spread as of the evening (local time) of Friday, July 27. Over 38,000 residents in Shasta county have been ordered to leave the area, including near the city of Redding. Around 500 buildings have been destroyed as of Friday and two fatalities have been confirmed. The fire is currently five percent contained and has burned approximately 19,551 hectares (48,312 acres) of land. According to officials, further evacuations are possible in the coming days and there are emergency plans to evacuate the entire city of Redding if necessary. Up-to-date information can be found on the CalFire website.
Context
The fire began on Monday, July 23, after a vehicle malfunctioned near the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. 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.
